Open Wonder: Android Oreo Updates

Android 8.0 Oreo is already official: here's the most amazing news about the new version

Android 8.0 Oreo is the official name that has finally unveiled Google for its new mobile operating system. It is the one we will see in the new smart phones of 2018, and the one that will face iOS 11 as an alternative in the 'Apple world'. It was an open secret and finally, it has been confirmed that as with Android 4.4 KitKat the Mountain View firm has reached an agreement.

Android 8.0 Oreo is already a reality and for that reason, we are going to make a review by all the novelties that incorporates with respect to the previous version and also to tell you when it will begin its landing in the different devices and which will be the first ones that will be able to enjoy it.

Just after the solar eclipse, which has been fully enjoyed in the United States, the Mountain View firm has made an extremely brief direct to unveil the figure that will decorate the entrance of its headquarters. It is the figure of the new version Android 8.0, and is an Oreo cookie with android arms. What it does mean is that the new version of its mobile operating system is called Android 8.0 Oreo.

What's New in Android 8.0 Oreo

With those words is how Google introduces Android 8.0 Oreo, and it is only because of the novelties of this mobile operating system. As explained in the website dedicated to Android Oreo, with this version the devices start up twice as fast - proven in Google Pixel -, and the management of multitasking is notably better because the system is responsible for limiting activity in the background. But that's not all, far from it.

They also tell us, in the summary of new features of Android 8.0 Oreo, that now certain tasks we will do much faster thanks to the Self-loading. It can be used in applications to make the login faster, without having to remember our passwords and usernames. Now, one of the most remarkable news and that also collect here, is that we have PiP -Picture in Picture, to be able to see two apps on the screen with one of them shifted to a corner and in smaller dimensions. For example, use a full-screen app and keep a reserved video call in one corner of the screen.

Notifications and icons changes

The truth is that the new version of the operating system includes many changes, including some that we had long expected. One of the points that have improved the most is almost everything related to the notification system, as it has awarded many improvements in this new version compared to the previous one.

But also with Android 8.0 Oreo has been introduced the system of advanced notifications: is that, in each app, is shown in the upper right corner a point with a numbering corresponding to pending notifications. And if we click it opens a small floating menu in which these notifications appear, and of course, we can access them more quickly. And speaking of applications, and speed, Instant Apps is one of the key points: to use applications without having to install them on the mobile, directly taking advantage of the Internet connection of the mobile.

In Android 8.0 we can discard notifications over a period of time and decide when we want to receive them again. In addition, we can categorize the notifications through channels and you will be much more visual, showing background colors and using a systematized iconography and typography.

Another change has to do with how they will be displayed in the notification bar since now notifications will not be displayed according to their order of arrival, but each will have its own space within it depending on the category to that they belong (calls, updates, reminders ...).

Another notable innovation comes with the icons because in Android Oreo these will be adaptive, being formed by two layers so that the developers can work on them and adapt them to the device so that they can change their design adapting better to the launcher.

Android Go and smart text selection

With this version of Android finally, comes a version for devices with few resources. This is Android Go, a reduced version of Android 8.0 Oreo thanks to which the low range, with fewer hardware resources, will not be unable to show off the latest version of the system.

Another important new feature in Android O is the intelligent selection of text, with which it will be able to deduce what it is that we want to do with respect to the text that we select. That is, if the selected words correspond to an address, Google will suggest that we open Google Maps.

Picture in picture mode, tones, and emoji

With this new version of Android comes the Picture in Picture mode that will allow us to split the screen in two to use two applications at once. In addition, we have another novelty that many will make happy: the possibility of adding our own ringtones and notifications sounds easily from the settings, without resorting to the computer or third party applications.

Of course, another news that has been most talked about and that has finally come true is the complete redesign of the emojis that stop being shaped like a drop to look a little more iOS emojis.

Google Play Protect is another aspect that has emphasized the signature because with this system the Google Play Store will be a safer place thanks to the analysis - with an own 'antivirus' - of the applications available there. And with this version have been introduced, in addition to security improvements, changes that affect autonomy. Without too much detail, Google ensures that with Android 8.0 Oreo will notice a better management of energy that, simply, translates into more hours of use with a single charge.

But ... what could not be missing? Undoubtedly, the emoji. From the hand of Android 8.0 Oreo comes a powerful update for the Google keyboard. In the same have been introduced all the new emoji that correspond to the last version of Unicode. That is, we can now enjoy new forms of expression that were recently approved and, similarly, will soon be available on devices from Apple and Microsoft.

iPhone 8 Wireless Charger to be Sold as Separate Accessory

Credit:Weibo

Apple’s Wireless Charging – Separate Accessory

 
According to leaked information, the wireless charging feature of Apple’s iPhone 8 could be sold as a separate accessory. An Apple expert, John Gruder had mentioned that the iPhone 8 would operate with a wireless charger though would need an additional accessory for functioning.

Leaked images on the Chinese social media seemed to endorse that Apple has been working on a wireless charger much ahead of its release of the iPhone 8, next month. The charging pads portrayed in the images are likely to be designed for the iPhone 8 though will be sold separately. Moreover they would also work with two other devices possibly known as the iPhone 7s and 7s Plus.

Competitor Android smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S8 tends to have featured wireless charging for several years. The iPhone 7 probably could be the first phone of Apple to comprise of the technology which will permit users to power-up their device without the need of plugging it in by engaging it on an inductive surface.

According to reports, the images of the wireless charging pads are said to have appeared on Chinese social media platform – Weibo and their validity cannot be confirmed. But various reports regarding the iPhone 7 have recommended that wireless charging would be implanted in the phone.
 

Smart Connector

 
Robert Hwang, chief executive of Apple supply chain company Wistron, had earlier this year, revealed that the iPhone 8 would be coming with wireless charging and water-proofing. He had informed that new features like waterproof and wireless charging now needs some various testing and waterproof function would be changing the assembly process to some extent. Lead Dubzinski, Powermat CEO had stated that wireless charging would be a standard feature in the next iPhone.

 A separate report has claimed that Apple will be utilising the Smart Connector for wireless charging. Apple had earlier filed patents for charging smartphones utilising Wi-Fi signals. However, it seemed that the company would be choosing the inductive technology instead of the signal method for the iPhone 8.

The iPhone 8 if so named has been reported to comprise of an OLED screen, wireless charging, facial recognition, an edge-to-edge display and for the first time, no home button. It will probably be released in early September on 5th or 6th either Tuesday or Wednesday, since the Monday tends to be a US holiday.
 

Long Range Wireless Charging

 
In a tweet last night Gruber had explained that he had heard that inductive charging would be sold separately from the iPhone itself something which various other reports had claimed. He also mentioned that the new charging technology could be late and would not launch till iOS 11.1 is released. Gruber compares the delay of wireless charging to the delay of Portrait Mode with the iPhone 7 Plus.

While unveiling the device on stage, Apple had shown Portrait Mode but had not really made it available to the public till the release of iOS 10.1 device a month thereafter. Though at some point of time it had been rumoured that the iPhone 8 would comprise of some type of `long range’ wireless charging, recent rumours have instead attached the feature as inductive charging. Leaked images have hinted that the iPhone 8 would comprise of wireless charging competences depending on the Qi technology.

Apple Discontinues iPod Shuffle and iPod Nano

Apple strokes iPod nano and iPod shuffle

Apple has quietly thrown the iPod nano and iPod shuffle out of the program. Both MP3 players will still have it in the stationary retail, but not for much longer. Apple justified this at Bloomberg with "simplifying the iPod series".

The iPod touch has not been updated since 2015. For this, he is not so bad with 230 euros for 32 gigabytes of memory and 340 euros for 128 gigabytes of memory.

In the Apple shop, only the iPod touch is sold cheaply: With 32 and 128 gigabytes of memory for 229 and 339 euros respectively. IPod Nano and iPod Shuffle are the only remaining stocks. This makes the iPhone-like iPod Touch the only digital music player that is still officially in the Apple program.

Apple spoke of a "simplification" of his iPod offer, the other devices would no longer sell. Apple is not likely to be more valuable, so far, only original unpacked, unused iPod have significantly increased in value.

Streamed music replaces older players

Apple had introduced the first iPod in 2001, later, it was available in smaller versions with less memory and also without display. The iPod Shuffle, for example, was no bigger than a matchbox and also played songs by random.

The downside: All songs have to be played on the devices via software. Only the iPod Touch is capable of internet access - so it is the only one that remains in the assortment. The original iPod does not exist any longer.

Of course, it is not a big surprise that the last two offline players are taken off the market. Music is streamed today and is no longer held locally. You could also use this argument just for a new kind of music player: a kind of modern radio station, where music comes from the Internet, but without a screen or further interactivity would have to do. An iPod nano that is connected to the Internet and does not know the difference between cached and streamed music.

For people who would like to have the advantage of streaming music (even if it is from their own collection) and still do not want to be automatically on, that would be a good compromise. And maybe that would open up the impasse in which audio player and streaming offerings are located. The triumph of streaked music from the Internet has gradually replaced players who can not resort to appropriate services. Apple has meanwhile its own music service ("Apple Music") and is thus very successful besides providers such as Spotify and Amazon Music.

The end of the two classic music players is not quite unexpected. Apple has already said several times that the iPhone will lead to the decline of the traditional music players. The music playback software installed on the smartphone offers at least the same functions in comparison. Users also do not have to carry a second device with them.

Current devices are also to be supplied with the new iOS 11 in autumn. In contrast to the now adjusted models, they can also play videos, access the Internet and download apps. And something else makes it more attractive for Apple: With the iPod touch users get access to Apple 's own in - house and paid streaming service Apple Music.

Different Web Hosting Types Explained

When you need to find the best possible web hosting services for your site, it is important that you make a point of seeing what options are available first. The more time and effort you put into doing this research, the better your chances are going to be of getting exactly what you need. The type of hosting that you end up going with will really affect your website(s) quite a bit, which is all the more reason to make a careful decision.

Shared Hosting

The very first type of hosting that we will discuss is shared hosting, which a lot of people choose because it is so inexpensive. This is without a doubt the cheapest hosting option that you are going to have, but you will have to decide whether or not it is really the best. A lot of people who are just starting out with new websites pick shared hosting because they are on a budget and cannot really afford much more than that.

It is important to remember that with shared hosting your website will be hosted on the same server as many others. This means that if your site starts to experience a sudden surge in traffic, it could go down if the server cannot handle the additional load. Shared hosting might be a good idea for some people, but definitely not for everyone.

SSD Hosting

SSD hosting is known for being extremely fast and efficient, which is what most people want. If it is your goal to get the fastest possible hosting services for your website, you will definitely need to take the time to look into this hosting option right away. This type of hosting uses SSD hard drives, which do not have any moving parts like traditional hard drives. It is precisely because of these technologically advanced hard drives, you are able to get the supersonic hosting services that you need.

VPS Hosting

Virtual private server or VPS hosting is yet another good option that you will need to take the time to look into before you make a final decision on anything in particular. This type of hosting restricts you from changing any of the server’s configuration settings, such as security settings or the version of PHP. This really won’t be a big issue for most people, but it might be for you.

With a Virtual Private Server, there is a physical server that is split into several virtual servers. With this kind of hosting, each server is its own self-contained unit and it’s allocated its own guaranteed resources, including CPU, RAM, and disk space.

These days many people have started going with VPS hosting, simply because it is so extremely efficient and inexpensive. You will find that you will have all the power and functionality of a dedicated server, but at a fraction of the cost.

Dedicated Hosting

Dedicated hosting is a good option for those who have websites that receive a lot of traffic on a regular basis. This is a great hosting option for people who want to stay in complete control. If you want complete power and control over your hosting server, you will certainly want to at least think about this option and everything it has to offer. While it might be true that dedicated hosting is a bit more expensive than some of the other options that are available, it is well worth it when you consider all of the benefits you will get in return.

Managed VPS and Dedicated Servers

A lot of people who are thinking about upgrading to a VPS or a dedicated server worry about having to manage it. The fact is that you will be able to get exactly what you need while not having to manage a thing. A lot of people are turned to managed VPS hosting because it is such a great overall option. With this type of managed hosting you won’t have to worry about taking care of the security or anything else. This is really the best option for those who don’t really care about being in control of their hosting server too much.

Conclusion

It is pretty obvious that there are many different types of hosting options that you will have to choose from, and it is important that you take the time to find the right one. The more time you spend doing this research, the more likely you will be to pick the best hosting type to match your needs. Most people do not take nearly enough time to do this research, and as a result they end up suffering the consequences at some point. We think that you will definitely be happy that you took the time to get all of this information because of how much it can benefit you.

Apple Just Leaked a Key iPhone 8 Feature by Accident

How a developer stumbled randomly over the new iPhone

A month before the official keynote of Apple, a developer stumbled over official details of the coming iPhone. The embarrassing thing: The Leak came this time from Apple itself.

When Guilherme Rambo saw the firmware of HomePod released by Apple, he initially thought of a mistake. The smart loudspeaker assistant finally comes to the market in December. Rambo's curiosity was aroused and he began to look at the code more closely. What he found, he probably expected at least: Apple's next iPhone.

While some details on Apple's high-end smartphone were already leaked, Rambo found more in the HomePod than rumors, he found Apple's own records of the greatest release in years. The code confirmed that the iPhone 8 or iPhone Pro - so exactly knows the name outside of Cupertino no one - would have a new design, a narrower frame, no home button, and a powerful facial recognition. The biggest Apple Leak comes for years - from Apple itself.

The firmware of the HomePod appeared a few days ago as an official Apple update. Rambo had just downloaded the code in the hope of finding interesting information about the Siri speaker when Apple noticed the error and took the code from the page. Like the iPhone, the HomePod runs on iOS. In itself is not noticeable, developers have access to the beta version of iOS 11 months ago. But Rambo, a Brazilian developer of an ecommerce company, made the decisive discovery: The released firmware was for iOS 11.0.2, two Update levels beyond the current state.

The code included some performance enhancements. Much more interesting, however, was that the update was not intended for the public. So Apple had not yet removed the mentions for unpublished devices - as well as the next iPhone, which will be released in September. It is a process that Apple goes through every year to ensure that developers can access iOS without experiencing anything about the new iPhone.

When he recognized the potential of his discovery, Rambo went to work. "I searched for lines in the firmware that confirm the alleged 'Face ID' feature," says Rambo. "I've searched for the word 'face' and noticed that it matches several icons in the BiometricKit, the Framework for Touch ID." These references do not actually exist in the iOS 11 beta.

Rambo was a bit big, he was safe, so he continued to search. As he walked through BiometricKit, he noticed that the terminology for adding a fingerprint ("EnrollTouchID") also had a counterpart for face recognition: EnrollPearlID. "Pearl ID" always appeared again, each time in connection with the topic of face recognition. Apple may like the face recognition to be quite different at the end, to call it "PearlID", but is not exactly a disguise tactics: "The code name makes it only easier to find all the appropriate code snippets in the operating system and see what function it has "Says Troughton-Smith. In other words, what Rambo had found was an unpublished, unannounced Apple feature.

Finding out what "Pearl ID" means, led to a much bigger find. "While I was looking for mentions of this 'Pearl ID' thing, I found a reference to Pearl-D22," says Rambo. "So I searched for D22 and discovered that this is the internal code name for the 'iPhone Pro' or 'iPhone 10'."

Although there are not very many mentions of D22, Apple leaves no doubt what the abbreviation means. How did Rambo get it? He found a file in the PassKit framework used by Wallet, named "Payment_glyph_phone-D22.caar". This is a file format in which Apple stores vector graphics for animated user interface elements. When Rambo read the picture, he saw an iPhone that he had never seen before. For the simple reason, because it does not yet exist.

Another mention of D22 resulted in a video file that was not present in the firmware, but the name "Enrollment_Tutorial_Loop-D22" indicates that it is a guide on how to register its face with Pearl ID. "There are also a few indications that the D22 model uses a new method to charge the battery," says Rambo. IOS 11.0.2 does not give any indication of what changes might be.

The extent of this leech is the biggest of its kind except for the premature debut of the iPhone 4 on Gizmodo. The minimal frame and the lack of the home button mark the biggest design change for years. And the FaceID feature seems to be a major consideration for the later presentation of the iPhone.

"Apple is now in a difficult situation," says Troughton-Smith. "It will surely cheer up many people internally that they themselves are the source of the only concrete leaks on design and functions." Apart from the disgrace, the impact on sales of the new iPhone will probably be rather small. "I believe that the people who hope for a new iPhone because of Leaks already know all the reports," says Jan Dawson, founder of the data analysis company Jackdaw Research. Dawnson notes that the revelation confirms existing rumors, but the real value is how well the new features work. A firmware has somewhere its limits.

Therefore, the biggest realization is that Apple's internal security has failed, as macOS Sierra days before the release already revealed the OLED TouchBar of the MacBook Pro. The current faux pas is even more striking. Apple expects more from the iPhone 8 than from the entire laptop line together. To see the details leak a month before the official revelation may end up causing financial damage. "We are watching an interruption in iPhone purchases, which is attributable to the increasingly frequent and early reports of future iPhones," said CEO Tim Cook in the past earnings call. This time, however, the blame hits nobody other than Apple itself.