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Google extends support to help developers prevent app sideloading: Report

Google extends support to help developers prevent app sideloading: Report

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 4:57 PM IST


Google has upgraded its Play Integrity API to assist developers in preventing the sideloading of their apps, according to a report by Android Authority. The Play Integrity API is an interface that “helps you check that interactions and server requests are coming from your genuine app binary running on a genuine Android device.” The interface checks for signs such as whether the app has been modified, tampered with, is running in an unreliable software environment, or if the device has activated Google Play Protect.

 


Essentially, Google allows developers to prevent sideloading of their apps on Android devices. Play Integrity is the successor to SafetyNet Attestation and offers additional features for developers.


According to Android Authority, similar to SafetyNet Attestation, developers can invoke the Play Integrity API at any point in their app and receive an Integrity Verdict to decide their next steps. Some apps invoke the Play Integrity API upon launch and, depending on the verdict, may block access, while others trigger it only during sensitive actions and issue a warning to the user. With the Play Integrity API, it is easier for apps to determine if the device and software environment are “genuine,” and with the recent API update, apps can also detect if the user is “genuine.”


Sideloading of apps on Android devices is common, but developers prefer to avoid this practice. A sideloaded app is not counted in the developer’s metrics on the Play Store and limits the developer’s control over which devices can use their app. Sideloaded apps may experience issues such as crashes or missing features.


In related news, Google has made it slightly more challenging to sideload apps by allowing developers to break their apps into smaller components, such as different files for languages, device types, and Android versions.

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 4:57 PM IST



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Google introduces AI-driven podcast feature 'Audio Overview' in NotebookLM

Google introduces AI-driven podcast feature 'Audio Overview' in NotebookLM

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


The feature aims to make engaging content out of research findings. | File Photo: Shutterstock

2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 4:50 PM IST


Google has introduced a groundbreaking feature in its AI note-taking app, NotebookLM, that transforms your research into engaging, AI-generated podcasts.


This experimental functionality, known as Audio Overview, leverages artificial intelligence to create podcast-style discussions featuring two AI hosts, according to The Verge.


NotebookLM, which was launched last year, has been enhanced with this new feature to offer a more interactive experience for users managing their notes and research materials.


With the integration of Google’s Gemini AI model, Audio Overview allows users to input their research and receive a synthesized, audio-based summary presented by virtual hosts.

 


These AI hosts are programmed to “summarize your material, make connections between topics, and banter back and forth,” creating an audio version of the detailed summaries previously available only in text form, according to The Verge.


The feature aims to make engaging content out of research findings.


During an internal test, the AI-generated podcast provided a lively discussion on the invention of the lightbulb. The hosts conversed about Thomas Edison and the collaborative nature of the invention, with remarks like “in the end, it’s actually a story about teamwork, making the dream work.”


Despite their attempt to emulate a human-like conversation, the AI hosts displayed some quirks, such as spelling out words like “P-L-U-S” and using informal phrases like “bling bling metal” for platinum, according to The Verge.


While the AI-generated conversations can be entertaining and educational, there are limitations to the feature.


Google notes that Audio Overview is intended to reflect your notes rather than provide a comprehensive or objective view of a topic.


Additionally, the process of generating a podcast can be time-consuming, and the feature is currently available only in English, according to The Verge.


Users should be cautious about relying on it for critical information, as the AI is not always accurate.


To explore this new functionality, users can access it by opening a notebook in NotebookLM, selecting the Notebook guide in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then choosing the “Audio Overview” option.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 4:50 PM IST



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WhatsApp launches Meta Verified badges for small businesses in India

WhatsApp launches Meta Verified badges for small businesses in India

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 3:58 PM IST


Meta, parent of instant messaging platform WhatsApp, on Thursday announced a slew of features for small businesses, which includes Meta-verified badges.




This announcement was part of the first WhatsApp Business Summit in India. It also signifies the social media platforms attempt to monetise WhatsApp in India. The platform boasts of a user base of over 500 million.


Sandhya Devanathan, VP, Meta in India, said, “The ubiquity and ease of WhatsApp places it at the centre of India’s transformation, helping businesses fuel compelling ideas and new models of growth. These features and programs, which we are announcing today, demonstrate our commitment to helping businesses maximize their value per dollar while providing exceptional customer experiences on WhatsApp.”

 


Meta Verified will now be available to all eligible small businesses in India using the WhatsApp Business app. With Meta Verified, businesses that choose to subscribe and demonstrate their authenticity will receive a verified badge, impersonation protection, account support, and premium features that help amplify their brand online and make it more efficient to chat with customers.


The same badge will appear on their WhatsApp Channels and Business pages, making it easy to share on social media and websites. 


In addition to Meta Verified, the company will also give small businesses ability to send customised messages to their customers – like appointment reminders, birthday greetings or even updates on a holiday sale. This new feature, available for a fee, gives businesses the ability to send personal messages with a customer’s name and customisable call-to-action buttons and will also enable them to schedule the day and time the messages are sent. 


As a part of its focus to reach out to small and medium enterprises, Meta also announced WhatsApp Bharat Yatra, a first-of-its-kind initiative where the company will go to tier II and III cities in India to provide on-ground, in-person training to small businesses.


Meta will train small businesses in setting up their WhatsApp Business accounts, creating catalogues, educating them on how to set up ads that click to WhatsApp, and much more. 

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 3:58 PM IST



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Apple releases iOS 18.1 beta for iPhone 16 series to simplify user upgrades

Apple releases iOS 18.1 beta for iPhone 16 series to simplify user upgrades

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 3:42 PM IST

Apple has released a build of iOS 18.1 beta specifically for the new iPhone 16 series, according to 9to5Mac. Previously, a build for iOS 18.1 was unavailable, raising concerns that users might face issues when setting up their new iPhones by restoring a backup from another device running iOS 18.1 beta.


Users running iOS 18.1 beta 3 on older-generation iPhones will be able to switch to the iPhone 16 models using the beta version, which includes Apple Intelligence, once the device is released next week. According to 9to5Mac, the iOS 18.1 build for the iPhone 16 series is the same as beta 3 available for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

 


Apple announced the new iPhone 16 series on September 9, with the phones coming pre-installed with iOS 18. The update will also be available for older iPhone models next week, although Apple Intelligence features will be absent from the initial release. To test these features and to facilitate easier migration for users on older models running the beta version, Apple has released the iOS 18.1 beta, which iPhone 16 users will be able to access from day one.


iOS 18.1: Features


iOS 18.1 introduces the first set of Apple Intelligence tools, including “Clean Up” in the Photo app, writing tools, and text and notification summarisation. Siri’s revamped interface is also part of the update, although the new language models will be absent. According to Apple, iOS 18.1 will be publicly released in October, with iOS 18.2 following later this year, bringing additional Apple Intelligence capabilities.

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 3:42 PM IST



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Vivo T3 Ultra, powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9200+, launched: Price, specs

Vivo T3 Ultra, powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9200+, launched: Price, specs

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 1:53 PM IST

China’s Vivo has launched the T3 Ultra 5G smartphone in India. The latest addition in its T-series, the T3 Ultra 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ processor and features a 5,500 mAh battery. The smartphone boasts IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Touted by the company as the segment’s fastest curved phone, the Vivo T3 Ultra 5G has SCHOTT Xensation Glass with improved cushioning for shock absorption and drop protection.


Vivo T3 Ultra 5G: Price and variants


8GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 31,999


8GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 33,999

 


12GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 35,999


Colours: Frost Green and Lunar Gray


As for the introductory offers, HDFC Bank users can avail an instant discount of Rs 3,000. The smartphone will be available for purchase from September 18, starting 7:00 pm, on e-commerce platform Flipkart and Vivo India online store. It will also be available at select retail stores.


Vivo T3 Ultra 5G: Details


Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ processor, the Vivo T3 Ultra 5G is equipped with a 5,500mAh battery and boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The Vivo T3 Ultra 5G sports a 6.78-inch 3D curved AMOLED display of a 120Hz refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness. It boots Android 14 operating system-based FunTouch OS 14, with Vivo promising two years of Android software updates and three years of security patches.


For imaging, the smartphone is equipped with a 50-megapixel main camera sensor with OIS (Sony IMX921) and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. The front houses a 50MP wide-angle camera for selfies and video calls. The device supports 4K video recording at 60 FPS and features hybrid OIS + EIS stabilisation.


The smartphone also packs AI features like AI Erase and AI Photo Enhance, and it offers dual stereo speakers.


Vivo T3 Ultra 5G: Specifications


Display: 6.78-inch curved AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 4,500 nits peak brightness


Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9200+


RAM: Up to 12GB


Storage: Up to 256GB


Rear Camera: 50MP (Sony IMX921) + 8MP ultra-wide


Front Camera: 50MP


Battery: 5,500mAh


Charging: 80W wired


OS: Android 14-based FunTouch OS

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 1:53 PM IST



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Dyson OnTrac available for demo, pre-book in India; launching on Sep 23

Dyson OnTrac available for demo, pre-book in India; launching on Sep 23

by | Sep 12, 2024 | Technology


2 min read Last Updated : Sep 12 2024 | 1:30 PM IST


Dyson has scheduled the India launch of its OnTrac headphones for September 23. Ahead of the launch, the Singaporean smart home appliance maker is offering the product for demonstration at its stores. The headphones are also available for pre-booking in India. Additionally, Dyson has announced Indian artist Badshah as the Dyson OnTrac headphones ambassador for the country.


“Dyson has huge ambitions to disrupt both the audio category and industry – evidenced by the Dyson OnTrac headphones, unveiled earlier this year. These headphones deliver exceptional sound quality through a high-performance design, underpinned by over 30 years of aero-acoustic research. To celebrate the Dyson OnTrac headphones launch across India, it is our great pleasure to announce our first Dyson OnTrac headphones ambassador, Badshah,” said Ankit Jain, managing director, Dyson India.

 


Dyson OnTrac: Features and specifications


The Dyson OnTrac headphones offer customisation options with interchangeable caps and cushions for a personalised experience. The headphones utilise custom Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) algorithms powered by an eight-microphone setup, which samples external sound 384,000 times per second. This enables the headphones to deliver noise cancellation of up to 40dB. Additionally, the headphones are equipped with 40mm, 16-ohm neodymium speaker drivers, producing frequencies ranging from 6Hz to 21,000Hz.


For battery life, Dyson stated that the headphones are powered by two lithium-ion batteries, offering up to 55 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC enabled.


The headphones connect to smartphones through the MyDyson app, which also provides features such as real-time soundtracking that monitors in-ear and external volume. The app includes three custom EQ modes for the headphones: Bass Boost, Neutral, and Enhanced.

First Published: Sep 12 2024 | 1:30 PM IST



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