Latest news with #mobileOS
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Android Authority
Fairphone software devs hit back against GrapheneOS security claims
What's next for Murena, though? Well, the company confirmed that it will be making some improvements: Murena is taking security issues seriously, and our policy about integration of security patches in /e/OS is very comparable to or even better in some cases than many of mobile OS vendors in the smartphone industry. However, as part of our ongoing efforts to continuously improve we have decided to reduce the integration time of monthly security updates in /e/OS. Therefore we'll progressively update our build infrastructure to allow the roll-out of latest security updates following the days after they have been released. Murena will continue to deploy urgent /e/OS builds for 0-day security fixes
Forbes
2 days ago
- Forbes
When Empires Collide: The Strain Of Building HarmonyOS
SUQIAN, CHINA - OCTOBER 23, 2024 - Illustration Huawei's native Harmony OS operating system, China's ... More first homegrown mobile operating system, is officially released. Since Huawei launched HarmonyOS, one question has come up repeatedly: why hasn't the HarmonyOS version of WeChat matched its Android and iOS counterparts in functionality? As one of China's most widely used applications, WeChat plays a central role in daily communication, payments, and services. Its slower-than-expected development on HarmonyOS reflects broader challenges facing this new operating system—not just for Tencent, but for developers across the ecosystem. Rebuilding, Not Porting According to a Chinese podcast Yi E Chuan E on July 3, WeChat's development team began building the HarmonyOS-native version in 2024. The task involved far more than simply porting the existing Android version. HarmonyOS NEXT had removed Android compatibility entirely, requiring a full architectural rebuild using Huawei's tools and system APIs. Core functions like messaging and payments were given priority, but more complex features—such as Moments, Mini Programs, voice and video calls, and third-party plugins—needed to be re-engineered from the ground up. Much of this functionality was developed over a decade ago and lacks clean documentation, adding to the difficulty of the migration. Frequent changes to HarmonyOS itself presented an additional layer of complexity. Unlike Android, which follows a predictable annual API cycle, HarmonyOS underwent multiple API iterations in short periods. Developers noted that at one point, they had to adapt to two API versions in a single month, which increased development costs and timelines. A Platform Still Under Construction HarmonyOS remains a work in progress. Key system features such as file access, webview rendering, multi-tasking, and accessibility services are still evolving. For apps like WeChat, which depend on tight integration with system functions, any instability at the OS level can delay development or affect performance. The PC version of HarmonyOS reveals additional challenges. Though PC WeChat has a smaller user base, it is vital for office communication and livestreaming. Developers cited limitations such as partial multi-window support, a dual-runtime architecture using ArkTS and Qt, and mobile-oriented system behavior that doesn't fully align with desktop expectations. In the podcast, a Harmony developer explained they've taken a gradual rollout approach, prioritizing stability and reliability. Even features that have been internally developed are being released slowly to avoid undermining user trust. Small Developers Face Steeper Challenges Recently, a blogger called Zhuge Wang released a statistical chart. Based on the information, Zhuge Wang's chart analyzes how many apps from major Chinese internet companies are compatible with Huawei's Harmony OS. Here's a summary: A Xiaohongshu blogger analyzed the ranking of Chinese tech companies adapting the HarmonyOS If Tencent, Alibaba, Bytedance and NetEast— China's most technically advanced companies—has required over a year to rebuild their supper Apps for HarmonyOS, the road ahead for smaller developers is clearly more difficult. Developing a native HarmonyOS app often requires teams to learn new SDKs, rewrite significant portions of code, and test across unfamiliar hardware. For a product development team, in the past, they usually reserve at least two groups of R&D teams for Apple iOS and Android systems, and now with the addition of the Harmony system, it is necessary to add at least one new team not smaller than the size of either of the above groups, which means increasing 30%-50% cost, in terms of time, staffing, and resources. Maintaining three separate platforms—iOS, Android, and HarmonyOS—can be unsustainable for smaller teams. Many are taking a wait-and-see approach, delaying full adoption until the platform becomes more mature, the toolchain stabilizes, and user adoption justifies the investment. Cross-platform solutions like Flutter or Webview can provide temporary support, but they come with performance trade-offs. Native development offers better integration but demands more time and technical effort. Balancing Speed and Sustainability Huawei's push for HarmonyOS is part of a larger strategy to increase China's technological independence. But for developers, platform decisions are driven more by practical considerations. Without a large and active user base, it becomes harder to justify major engineering investments—especially for startups and smaller firms. This creates a feedback loop: users hesitate to switch without full app support, and app developers hesitate to invest without guaranteed user demand. Building a healthy app ecosystem requires careful alignment between user expectations, developer capacity, and platform readiness. While larger companies may eventually build for HarmonyOS, smaller developers often depend on efficiency, stability, and ease of development—areas where HarmonyOS is still evolving. Developer Responses and Public Expectations Online, some developers have faced pressure from users eager to see faster HarmonyOS adoption. However, most product teams have chosen to quietly focus on refining their apps rather than rushing unfinished versions to market. Insiders note that releasing features before they are fully tested could risk not just user dissatisfaction but also long-term reputational damage—both for the apps involved and for HarmonyOS itself. It's worth noting that certain groups—in the PC and Mobile WeChat there is still a group of users (such as elderly users and users with accessibility needs) is not easy to be seen by the public, although the number of users is not large, but the adaptation of the priority is equally high. Building robust accessibility tools under a new system architecture requires time and care, particularly for features as central as voice control, large text modes, and screen readers. Looking Ahead: Building a More Inclusive Ecosystem HarmonyOS is still at an early stage in its evolution. While its long-term goals are ambitious, the short-term reality is that it remains a complex platform to develop for—especially for small- and medium-sized teams. Whether HarmonyOS can sustain a vibrant, diverse app ecosystem will depend on how quickly Huawei can improve developer tools, stabilize its API environment, and provide meaningful support. Lowering the technical and financial barriers to entry will be crucial if HarmonyOS is to attract the full range of developers—beyond the handful of large tech firms that currently dominate the rollout. Conclusion The slower rollout of HarmonyOS-native apps, including WeChat, should not be seen as resistance or lack of commitment. It reflects the very real engineering and ecosystem challenges that come with building a new operating system from the ground up. As HarmonyOS continues to develop, the success of the platform will hinge on its ability to serve not just national objectives, but the practical needs of the developer community. For now, patience, transparency, and sustained investment in developer experience may be the most effective paths forward.
Geeky Gadgets
7 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 vs. Android 16: A Deep Dive into the Next Generation of Mobile OS
The beta releases of iOS 26 and Android 16 mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of mobile operating systems. Both platforms introduce significant updates that emphasize design, customization, and functionality, reflecting the growing importance of software-driven innovation in the mobile market. While iOS 26 refines its minimalist aesthetic, Android 16 adopts a more utilitarian approach, catering to a diverse range of user needs. These updates signal a shift in focus toward enhancing the user experience, particularly as hardware advancements slow in pace. The video below from Android Police gives us a look at the two mobile OS. Watch this video on YouTube. Design Overhauls: Contrasting Philosophies The design philosophies of iOS 26 and Android 16 underscore their distinct approaches to creating user-friendly interfaces. iOS 26: Apple introduces a 'liquid glass' aesthetic, blending polished, translucent visuals with improved readability. This design evolution builds on Apple's tradition of sleek, cohesive interfaces, appealing to users who prioritize elegance and simplicity. Apple introduces a 'liquid glass' aesthetic, blending polished, translucent visuals with improved readability. This design evolution builds on Apple's tradition of sleek, cohesive interfaces, appealing to users who prioritize elegance and simplicity. Android 16: Android takes a different route with high-contrast visuals, focusing on usability and accessibility. This approach ensures clarity in various lighting conditions, making it particularly practical for users who value functionality over refinement. These contrasting design strategies highlight the platforms' core philosophies: Apple's focus on visual harmony and refinement versus Android's emphasis on practicality and inclusivity. Customization: Empowering Users Customization takes center stage in both iOS 26 and Android 16, offering users more tools to personalize their devices. iOS 26: Enhances lock screen widgets, allowing quick access to critical information without cluttering the interface. This feature maintains Apple's commitment to a clean, user-friendly design while adding a layer of functionality. Enhances lock screen widgets, allowing quick access to critical information without cluttering the interface. This feature maintains Apple's commitment to a clean, user-friendly design while adding a layer of functionality. Android 16: Expands customization options with advanced wallpaper features, including live effects, weather integration, and depth effects. These tools allow users to create dynamic, immersive home screens tailored to their preferences. This focus on personalization reflects a broader trend in mobile technology: empowering users to make their devices uniquely their own while maintaining usability. New Features: Expanding Functionality Both operating systems introduce features designed to enhance functionality and bridge the gap between mobile and desktop experiences. Android 16: Introduces a desktop mode, transforming smartphones into mini-computers when connected to an external display. This feature is particularly appealing to professionals and multitaskers seeking greater productivity. Introduces a desktop mode, transforming smartphones into mini-computers when connected to an external display. This feature is particularly appealing to professionals and multitaskers seeking greater productivity. iOS 26: Adds call screening and estimated charge times—features that Android users have long enjoyed. These additions demonstrate Apple's willingness to adopt cross-platform innovations while maintaining its signature design ethos. These updates cater to the evolving needs of modern users, whether through professional tools or everyday conveniences, and reflect the platforms' commitment to staying relevant in a competitive market. Animations and Haptic Feedback: Enhancing Interaction Both iOS 26 and Android 16 aim to elevate the tactile and visual experience, albeit through different methods. iOS 26: Focuses on fluid animations, creating a seamless and polished interface that feels intuitive and responsive. These animations enhance the overall user experience by making interactions feel natural and engaging. Focuses on fluid animations, creating a seamless and polished interface that feels intuitive and responsive. These animations enhance the overall user experience by making interactions feel natural and engaging. Android 16: Prioritizes haptic feedback, offering tactile interactions that improve usability and engagement. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who rely on physical cues to navigate their devices. While these enhancements contribute to a more immersive experience, they also raise questions about potential impacts on battery life, especially for devices with limited hardware upgrades. Consumer Impact: Shaping Preferences The updates in iOS 26 and Android 16 are likely to influence consumer preferences, particularly for those considering a switch between platforms. By prioritizing visible, user-facing changes over backend improvements, both operating systems aim to capture attention in a market where hardware advancements are becoming less dramatic. The emphasis on design, customization, and functionality reflects a strategic effort to retain user loyalty while attracting new audiences. These updates also highlight the platforms' understanding of shifting consumer expectations, where software innovation increasingly drives purchasing decisions. Market Implications: Adapting to Change The redesigns in iOS 26 and Android 16 underscore the platforms' responses to evolving market dynamics and competitive pressures. By focusing on aesthetics, usability, and customization, both systems aim to remain relevant in an increasingly saturated market. However, the reliance on software updates to drive innovation raises questions about the long-term trajectory of mobile technology. As hardware advancements slow, the ability of software improvements to sustain user interest becomes a critical factor. These updates may set the stage for future developments, but they also highlight the challenges of maintaining momentum in a rapidly maturing industry. The Future of Mobile Operating Systems The beta releases of iOS 26 and Android 16 offer a glimpse into the future of mobile technology, emphasizing the importance of software-driven innovation. With their distinct approaches to design, customization, and functionality, these updates reflect the platforms' efforts to redefine the user experience in an era of slowing hardware advancements. Whether you value sleek aesthetics or bold functionality, these updates demonstrate how mobile operating systems are evolving to meet the needs of modern users. As the public release approaches, the impact of these changes on consumer preferences and market dynamics will become clearer, shaping the next chapter in the evolution of mobile technology. Find more information on iOS 26 by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. Source & Image Credit: Android Police Filed Under: Android News, Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
02-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
You Won't Believe What iOS 26 Adds: 100+ New Features Revealed
iOS 26 represents a pivotal step in the evolution of Apple's mobile operating system, blending advanced personalization, AI-powered tools, and enhanced functionality. With a focus on user-centric design and intelligent features, this update redefines how you interact with your iPhone. In the video below, Nikias Molina explores the most impactful updates, highlighting key features that make iOS 26 a standout release. Watch this video on YouTube. Lock Screen and Home Screen Customization iOS 26 introduces an array of customization options, allowing you to tailor your lock and home screens like never before. These updates emphasize both aesthetics and functionality, allowing you to create a device experience that reflects your personal style. Key features include: Dynamic time displays and widgets that adapt to your preferences, offering real-time updates and relevant information at a glance. and widgets that adapt to your preferences, offering real-time updates and relevant information at a glance. A sleek liquid glass design that introduces a transparent, light-refracting effect for a modern and sophisticated look. that introduces a transparent, light-refracting effect for a modern and sophisticated look. Redesigned app icons with dark mode compatibility , tinted variations, and gradient wallpapers for a cohesive visual experience. , tinted variations, and gradient wallpapers for a cohesive visual experience. Expanded wallpaper options and layout configurations, giving you greater control over your device's interface. These enhancements empower you to craft a visually cohesive and highly functional device environment. Enhanced Communication: Messages and FaceTime Communication takes center stage in iOS 26, with significant upgrades to both the Messages app and FaceTime. These updates aim to make interactions more engaging, efficient, and inclusive. Messages: The app now supports custom chat wallpapers for individual and group conversations, with AI-generated options available through the Image Playground tool. Additional features include poll creation for group chats, typing indicators for group conversations, and seamless Apple Cash integration for financial transactions. The app now supports custom chat wallpapers for individual and group conversations, with AI-generated options available through the Image Playground tool. Additional features include poll creation for group chats, typing indicators for group conversations, and seamless Apple Cash integration for financial transactions. FaceTime: Live translation and live captions enable seamless multilingual conversations, while a redesigned interface simplifies contact management. Enhanced screen sharing and SharePlay options further expand FaceTime's versatility for both work and entertainment. These updates transform how you connect with others, offering tools that are both practical and personalized. Streamlined Apps and New Additions iOS 26 introduces new apps and refines existing ones to enhance productivity and entertainment. These changes reflect Apple's commitment to delivering a seamless and intuitive user experience. Phone App: The redesigned Phone app features intuitive navigation with dedicated tabs for calls, contacts, and the keypad. New tools like Hold Assist notify you when a call is picked up, while call screening with transcription helps identify unknown callers. Advanced filtering options make it easier to manage calls and voicemails. The redesigned Phone app features intuitive navigation with dedicated tabs for calls, contacts, and the keypad. New tools like Hold Assist notify you when a call is picked up, while call screening with transcription helps identify unknown callers. Advanced filtering options make it easier to manage calls and voicemails. Preview: This new app offers robust tools for managing PDFs and files, including markup, autofill, and document scanning capabilities. This new app offers robust tools for managing PDFs and files, including markup, autofill, and document scanning capabilities. Apple Games: A centralized hub for gaming, integrating Game Center, Apple Arcade, and multiplayer options for a seamless gaming experience. These updates cater to a wide range of needs, from productivity to leisure, making sure your device is equipped for any task. AI, Creativity, and Smarter Features Artificial intelligence plays a central role in iOS 26, introducing tools that enhance usability, creativity, and personalization. These features demonstrate the growing integration of AI into everyday device interactions. AI-driven tools: Screenshot-based queries allow you to extract information directly from your screen captures, streamlining research and problem-solving. Screenshot-based queries allow you to extract information directly from your screen captures, streamlining research and problem-solving. Genmoji customization: Expanded options let you create highly detailed avatars with new styles and appearance settings. Expanded options let you create highly detailed avatars with new styles and appearance settings. Image Playground: This advanced tool enables you to generate unique visuals, offering creative possibilities for both personal and professional use. These innovations highlight the potential of AI to simplify tasks and unlock new creative opportunities. Optimized Battery, Accessibility, and Travel Tools iOS 26 introduces practical updates that improve battery management, accessibility, and travel experiences, making sure your device adapts to your needs throughout the day. Battery Management: Features like estimated charging times to 80% or 100% and Adaptive Power Mode help you plan your day and extend battery life. Features like estimated charging times to 80% or 100% and Adaptive Power Mode help you plan your day and extend battery life. Accessibility: Redesigned settings and personalized options make the operating system more inclusive, catering to a diverse range of user needs. Redesigned settings and personalized options make the operating system more inclusive, catering to a diverse range of user needs. Apple Maps and Wallet: AI-powered suggested routes, a visited places history timeline, and real-time flight updates in Wallet simplify navigation and travel planning. These updates ensure your device remains reliable, accessible, and efficient, no matter where life takes you. Elevated Entertainment: Music, Podcasts, and Photos Entertainment and creativity are at the forefront of iOS 26, with updates to Apple Music, Podcasts, and the Photos app. These changes enhance how you enjoy and manage your media. Apple Music: Automix provides seamless song transitions, while pinned albums and playlist folders improve organization. These features cater to music lovers seeking a more tailored listening experience. Automix provides seamless song transitions, while pinned albums and playlist folders improve organization. These features cater to music lovers seeking a more tailored listening experience. Podcasts: Dialogue enhancement and playback speed adjustments allow for a more personalized and immersive experience. Dialogue enhancement and playback speed adjustments allow for a more personalized and immersive experience. Photos App: A redesigned interface separates 'Library' and 'Collections' for easier navigation. Customizable collections and a new spatial scenes feature let you create 3D wallpapers from your photos, adding a creative touch to your library. These updates enrich your entertainment options, making it easier to enjoy and personalize your media. Refined Browsing and Camera Features iOS 26 enhances two essential tools: Safari and the Camera app. These updates focus on usability and functionality, making sure a seamless experience for browsing and capturing moments. Safari: A redesigned menu bar optimized for full-screen browsing and gesture-based bookmarking simplifies navigation and organization. A redesigned menu bar optimized for full-screen browsing and gesture-based bookmarking simplifies navigation and organization. Camera: A sleek interface featuring the liquid glass design, quick access to photo and video settings, and lens dirty detection ensure you never miss a perfect shot. These refinements make everyday tasks more intuitive and enjoyable, whether you're exploring the web or capturing memories. Here are more detailed guides and articles that you may find helpful on iOS 26 Features. Source & Image Credit: Nikias Molina Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Phone Arena
01-07-2025
- Phone Arena
You won't get Android 16 if your phone is one of the following
Android 16 is a fact – this year, Google's team has released the next version of the world's most popular mobile operating system earlier than recent years. As usual, Pixel phones get the latest Android version first. Sure, Android 16 is officially presented as a major update, but for end users, it could feel more like a quiet tune-up than a bold leap forward. It introduces important improvements under the hood – like new APIs, better connectivity tools, and upgraded security – but many of the headline features, such as the Material 3 Expressive design and new desktop-style multitasking, aren't fully rolled out yet. Some early testers have described the release as underwhelming, noting it looks and behaves almost identically to Android 15. So while Android 16 lays important groundwork for future enhancements, most users won't notice much difference – for now, it plays more like a refined version of what came before. Be it as it may, Android 16 is a significant update that those among us who are not on iOS are expecting and are curious about. The Oppo Find X5 Pro. | Image by PhoneArena Not all phones out there will get Android 16 , of course. If you're a fan of Oppo's, for example, you may be disappointed to learn that numerous popular devices will stay on Android 15 and not get the upcoming upgrade. Oppo has yet to officially announce which of its devices will receive the Android 16 (ColorOS 16) update, but based on the brand's typical software support policy and recent trends, several models are expected to be left out. Among the most notable devices likely not to receive the update are those from the Oppo Find X5 lineup, the Reno 10 series, and the F21 Pro series. These models were once flagship or mid-range standouts, but their aging hardware and the company's limited update cycle suggest they are reaching the end of their software support window. Full list, based on this report: Oppo Find N series Oppo Find X series Oppo Find X5 Oppo Find X5 Pro Oppo Find X5 Lite Earlier Find X series phones Oppo Reno series Oppo Reno 10 Oppo Reno 10 Pro Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ Oppo Reno 9 Oppo Reno 9 Pro Oppo Reno 9 Pro+ Earlier Reno series phones Oppo F series Oppo F23 Oppo F21 Pro Oppo F21 Pro 5G Earlier Oppo F series phones Oppo K series Oppo K11 Oppo K11x Oppo K10 Oppo K10 Pro Oppo K10x Earlier Oppo K series phones Oppo Pad series Oppo Pad 2 Oppo Pad Air 2 Oppo Pad Air Oppo Pad Neo Oppo Pad Oppo A series Oppo A3 Oppo A3 Pro Oppo A3x Oppo A2 Oppo A2 Pro Oppo A2x Earlier Oppo A series phones The Oppo Find X5 Pro, once known for its premium build and advanced camera system co-engineered with Hasselblad, may disappoint users if it misses out on Android 16 , especially since it was a high-end device not too long ago. Similarly, the Reno 10 Pro+, with its sleek design and capable telephoto camera, might not see further major updates despite its popularity in the mid-range market. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
