Facebook to restore audio, video call option to main app

Lahore (NUT-DESK)

Facebook has decided to bring back the audio and video call option to the main app. According to a report by Bloomberg, the feature will allow users to make video or audio calls to their Facebook friends via the main Facebook app. The feature is expected to be introduced soon. Chats, however, are not being brought back to the main app and users will still have to download Messenger if they wish to chat with Facebook friends.

Earlier versions of Facebook had allowed users to chat with friends while browsing the app. In 2011, Facebook split up the feature and introduced the Messenger app for communications.

Most Facebook users adapted to this change and separately downloaded the Messenger app for communications, however, it seems that Facebook has decided that Messenger wasn’t the best idea after all. Facebook’s Director of Product for Messenger Connor Hayes stated that initially, the changes will be rolled out for a select few users in the US.

It is expected that it will take a while for the feature to make its way to more users around the world.

iPads, android tablets to soon be allowed as WhatsApp’s linked devices

Lahore (Nut- DesK)

Latest media reports on WhatsApp , says the multimedia messaging app is adding multi-device support to now include iPads. Years after the service’s launch, its beta version today has revealed it will work on an iPad.

WhatsApp allows both iPhone and Android users to use the service but currently, it doesn’t have native app operation available on iPads. As per the beta version being tested as we speak, things will soon change.

WABetainfo revealed in its tweet that “multi-device 2.0” is included in the latest beta underway with WhatsApp. The feature enables WhatsApp to be used across multiple devices, including in a browser and desktop, but not with a native WhatsApp app for iPad OS.

Thus, instead of using a browser to access WhatsApp, the second-generation version of the feature will use a native version of the app for iPad OS to enable multi-device support.

It is claimed the iPad version will work independently, though conversations should also synchronize between the iPhone and iPad as well.Though mentioned in the beta, there’s no separate iPad OS app for testing yet.

 

Xiaomi’s Redmi 10 will be the next style-icon!

Lahore (Nut-Desk)

Xiaomi is launching another phone under the umbrella of it’s Redmi series. Named as the Redmi 10, the phone  will be launched in Pakistan very soon; a confirmed date is still unknown. The mobile will be equipped with striking features and crazy specifications. The tentative price of this mobile from Xiaomi might be starting from Rs 35,000- 36,000.

In addition to this, the upcoming phone is rumored to be powered by a Octa-core (4×2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4×1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) processor that will let you enjoy a smooth and faster performance. Also, you will be able to access multiple applications and play intense graphics games without any lags or interruptions. Moreover, the phone is rumored to  have 4 GB of RAM and about 64 GB of internal storage. Space constraints is something you will not have to be worried about while saving your files such as videos, music, documents, and more.

It is expected that this upcoming phone will come with a 6.53 inches (16.58 cm) display that will have a resolution of 1080 x 2340 Pixels. Which is why you will have an immersive viewing experience while playing games or watching videos.

Talking about the optics, the upcoming Xiaomi phone is likely to come with a Single camera setup on the rear. It is rumored to have about a 50 MP camera that will let you click some amazing pictures. Some of the features included on the back camera setup might include Auto Flash, Digital Zoom, Face detection and Touch to focus. The mobile is rumored to come with a 13 MP front camera for clicking some crazy selfies and making video calls.

The Xiaomi Redmi 10, allegedly will run the Android v10 (Q) operating system and will be housing a 5900 mAh battery. This will let you use the phone for a longer time period while listening to songs, watching movies, playing games, and more.

Various connectivity options on the Xiaomi Redmi 10 might include WiFi – Yes, Wi-Fi 802.11, a/ac/b/g/n, Mobile Hotspot, Bluetooth – Yes, v5.0, and 5G supported by device, 4G, 3G, 2G. The sensors on the smartphone might include Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass.

According to the rumours, the dimensions of this phone are going to be around 162.3 mm x 77.2 mm x 8.9 mm; and it might weigh approximately 199 grams.

OPPO Unveils Multiple Innovative Imaging Technologies

OPPO Unveils Multiple Innovative Imaging Technologies, Leading the Future of Smartphone Imaging Development

  • Included in these innovations: All new RGBW sensor, Continuous Optical Zoom, Five-axis OIS technology, and next-generation Under-screen Camera

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir leading global smart device brand OPPO held the 2021 OPPO Future Imaging Technology Launch Event. Throughout the online event, OPPO unveiled a series of breakthroughs in smartphone imaging technology focused on upgrades to sensors, modules, and algorithms. The company has been focusing on self-development and optimization of underlying imaging technologies in order to enable users to “capture the beauty in life with ease”. Included in these innovations: OPPO’s next-generation RGBW sensor, the 85-200mm Continuous Optical Zoom, Five-axis OIS technology, and next-generation under-screen camera with a series of proprietary AI algorithms.

New Sensor: the next-generation RGBW sensor enhances light sensitivity with improved color performance

OPPO’s next-generation RGBW sensor significantly improves light sensitivity by introducing additional white sub-pixels(W), groundbreaking DTI technology, and OPPO’s self-developed 4-in-1 pixel algorithm. As a result of these innovations, the new sensor allows for 60% more light to be captured than previous sensors while achieving an up to 35% reduction in noise[1] to deliver much clearer and brighter images in low-light conditions.

Illustration of OPPO’s next-generation RGBW sensor

The next-generation RGBW sensor is made using advanced manufacturing and processing technology, increasing the level of computing power needed to execute complex algorithms and maximizing the amount of data extracted via the sensor’s white pixels. OPPO’s proprietary 4-in-1 pixel algorithm helps to substantially boost the sensor’s color performance, preventing issues such as color inaccuracy and moiré patterns. Also, industry-leading DTI pixel isolation technology on the new sensor effectively prevent sub-pixel crosstalk and improve image quality. The new sensor will be commercially released in OPPO products from Q4 2021.

New Modules: OPPO 85-200mm Continuous Optical Zoom supports super smooth zoom, and OPPO Five-axis OIS guarantees clearer snapshots

OPPO 85-200mm Continuous Optical Zoom

The new-released module is the 85-200mm Continuous Optical Zoom, which redesigns the underlying structural module at the hardware level:

  • It adopts G+P (glass + plastic) lens technology for the first time, introducing two ultra-thin, high-precision aspheric glass lenses to significantly boost optical effects, such as minimizing stray light.
  • The innovative application of a tunnel magnetoresistance sensor (TMR sensor) allows the lenses within the camera module to move with more stability and precision.
  • The newly upgraded guiding shaft motor increases the dynamic tilt at which the lens system can be moved, easily supporting Continuous Optical Zoom at higher magnifications.

OPPO Five-axis OIS technology

New Algorithm: OPPO self-developed algorithms support the next-generation under-screen camera to deliver the perfect balance between screen and camera quality

Finally, OPPO also showcased its next-generation under-screen camera solution for future smartphones. The innovative pixel geometry ensures a 400-PPI high-quality display in the under-screen camera area. Using transparent wiring and a new design, the result is much finer display quality with a smoother visual experience. With each pixel circuit driving only 1 pixel (“1-to-1”) in the screen and OPPO’s precise algorithmic compensation technology, the chromaticity and brightness of the entire screen are more precisely controlled, with a deviation of only about 2% and an improved screen lifespan of up to 50%.

Microsoft releases official Windows 11 ISOs

Lahore (NUT-DESK)

Microsoft has released the first official Windows 11 ISOs for Insiders interested in doing a clean install or in-place upgrade of the OS.

Microsoft sounded the horn on Windows Blogs with a new Windows 11 Insider build. However, before Microsoft even goes into detail about what this new build does, it declares that ISOs are now available for people to download.

The ISOs are essential for Microsoft’s testing plans because they give users the whole experience of installing Windows 11 on their PC. Beforehand, users got the Windows 11 beta by upgrading their current Windows 10 system, but this doesn’t replicate the same experience that someone has when installing the operating system on a new PC.

Microsoft calls this the “out of box experience” (OOBE) because it’s what you see between taking the CD out of the box and having a fully-working Windows 11 PC. Now, with official ISOs out for everyone to download, people can test the Windows 11 OOBE for themselves and report any problems or bugs that arise.

If you want to give the ISO a try for yourself, head over to the Windows Insider Preview Downloads page and grab it there. If you don’t see the option to download Windows 11, it’s because you’re either not signed up for the Insider builds or not signed in to your Insider account.

Of course, if you remember, this update isn’t just about the ISOs alone. Microsoft did make some changes to Windows 11, even if they’re not as exciting as the official ISOs. For instance, during the Windows 11 OOBE, you can now give your PC a name, so your network isn’t full of randomly generated device names by default.

There’s also a brand new Clock app coming to Windows 11. This includes a new feature called “focus sessions” that allow you to set a short timer to get work done. During the timer, Windows will pause your music so you can work in peace. Microsoft talks more about this on the Windows Insider Blog.

If you’ve been looking for an official Windows 11 Beta ISO, now is the time to leap into action and grab one. The Windows 11 ISO will give you an idea of what it will be like to install the operating system from scratch, so you know what to expect when it officially releases.

Now that Microsoft is going full bore with Windows 11, will Windows 10 loyalists be left in the dirt? Fortunately, Microsoft’s track record supporting older operating systems shows that Windows 10 users have nothing to worry about.

HUAWEI Band 6 Wins 2 Honours from Top Global Media Outlets

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) has announced that its game-changing entry-level fitness tracker, HUAWEI Band 6, has been awarded two accolades from top Global media outlets for its outstanding value for money, long battery life, and solid performance.

HUAWEI Band 6

The HUAWEI Band 6 is redefining the category of fitness trackers, leading the way in transforming the experience of using smart bands. Featuring an enhanced AMOLED FullView Display, two-week battery life[1]  as well as all-day heart rate, SpO2, sleep monitor, HUAWEI Band 6 is the perfect companion for users to establish new ways to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

[1] The data is based on the testing result in Huawei labs. The battery life is 14 days for average users or 10 days for intensive users.

Android Headlines

“The Huawei Band 6 is even more affordable…” – “Huawei did a good job designing this fitness tracker, as the bezels around the display are not thick at all.”

“It looks really good on paper, and the same translates to real life.”

“The Huawei Band 6 feels well-built, and it’s extremely comfortable to wear.”

“It has one of the best displays we’ve seen on fitness trackers.”

Android Authority

“The Huawei Band 6 is a solid, inexpensive fitness tracker. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a wearable in this price segment. ” – “Coming from the much smaller Xiaomi Mi Band 6, the Huawei Band 6 offers a refreshing design and all-around solid fitness tracking. Plus, it’s just easier to use.” – “The new Huawei fitness tracker is a capable little wearable, with a surprising amount of features not often seen in the sub-€50 market.”

“Comfortable, roomy form factor.”

“Lots of workout modes.”

*For related functions and parameters in the text, please refer to the official website.

Huawei committed to Spread digital economy in the Arab world

Executive’s comments shared with audiences at 5th China-Arab States Expo

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Speaking at the 5th China-Arab States Expo being held this week, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman Mr. Guo Ping has highlighted the decisive role that information and communications technology (ICT) can play as a driver of the Arab world’s socio-economic development, expanding the region’s digital economy.

“The increased presence of digital infrastructure is positively impacting the Arab world,” confirmedGuo. The executive noted that the MENA region is projected by the GSMA to spend USD70 billion in rolling out telecom infrastructure between 2019 and 2025[1]. Meanwhile, embracing technologies such as 5G, AI, cloud, and other fast-developing areas has helped economies in the GCC alone to return to a projected aggregate growth rate of 2.2% in 2021, according to the World Bank[2]

“Connectivity and computing are becoming deeply integrated with all industries and are creating new value. The development of advanced ICT solutions is already proving to be an enabler of economic recovery following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. New digital applications are also helping to reduce carbon emissions in a variety of industries as per Arab nations’ wider developmental plans. Digital technologies have now become the cornerstone of the intelligent world—and the driver behind its future development in the region,” noted Guo.

In particular, countries in the Arab world have been among the early global adopters of 5G infrastructure. The GCC region especially has been leading the deployment of 5G, as well as other technologies, that will make the Fourth Industrial Revolution possible.According to Guo, adoption of those technologies has significantly changed sectors like education, healthcare, and transportation. These industries are gradually moving towards greater intelligence.

“To this end, Huawei is committed to knowledge exchange with partners across the Arab world, leveraging the latest technologies to contribute to their ambitious national visons. I sincerely hope that industry partners and policymakers in the regioncan collaborate in their efforts to accelerate the deployment of digital infrastructure. Together, we can build a more intelligent, interconnected, and low-carbon world,” Guo concluded.

Twitter tests feature to report ‘misleading’ content

Lahore (NUT-Desk)

Social media platform, Twitter unveiled a new feature to allow users to flag content that could contain misinformation, a scourge that has only grown during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Starting Tuesday, a button would be visible to some users from the United States, South Korea and Australia to choose “it’s misleading” after clicking “report tweet.”

“We are testing a feature for you to report Tweets that seem misleading – as you see them,” the social network said from its safety and security account.

Users can then be more specific, flagging the misleading tweet as potentially containing misinformation about “health,” “politics” and “other.”

“We’re assessing if this is an effective approach so we’re starting small,” the San Francisco-based company said.

“We may not take action on and cannot respond to each report in the experiment, but your input will help us identify trends so that we can improve the speed and scale of our broader misinformation work.”

Twitter, like Facebook and YouTube, regularly comes under fire from critics who say it does not do enough to fight the spread of misinformation.

But the platform does not have the resources of its Silicon Valley neighbors, and so often relies on experimental techniques that are less expensive than recruiting armies of moderators.

WhatsApp brings five new features for iPhone and Android fans.

Lahore (NUT-DESK)

It’s been a busy month for WhatsApp. Since July, the chat app has dropped several new features – some of which users have been waiting a long time for. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest updates and upgrades which are set to make your life a whole lot easier.

Joinable calls

Rolled out in late July, this feature provides a very useful addition to video and voice calls that lets users jump into a chat after things have begun. People who miss the start of a group video conversation will be able to join at any time during the call – just like in Zoom or Google Meet – or even leave and come back whenever they like. Before this, letting a new person into a call meant hanging up and restarting the call for everyone, which was a bit of a pain.

To make it even smoother, WhatsApp added a new call info screen to show who’s already on the call and who was invited but hasn’t yet joined. Anyone who hits the ignore button when the call starts can simply join later from the calls tab in WhatsApp.

Smart Switch

Ever been frustrated when upgrading your phone by how difficult it is to switch between Android and iOS? The operating systems make it as much of a pain as possible to cut down on users jumping ship. However, WhatsApp has just announced a new feature to smooth the road.

Previously, there was no way to move your chat history from one system to another. Years of chat history, data and photos could be lost. But this week the Smart Switch feature made its debut to give users a simple way to backup your chat history and files and transfer them to a new phone. It will be coming to all Samsung phones that run Android 10 or higher in the next few weeks, followed shortly by all Android and iOS devices.

Multi-device support

It’s been years coming but WhatsApp users can finally use the app without needing a phone. Until now, using the app on your laptop or PC meant keeping an active connection to your smartphone – useless if your phone was lost or out of power.

Now, you can use WhatsApp on up to four devices at once as well as your phone. Even better, you don’t need to have a phone connection at all. All your messages and data including stickers, new contacts and starred messages will be shared seamlessly between devices. You can start and answer calls from any device.

Disappearing messages

Snapchat was the first to introduce photos and videos that can only be viewed once before disappearing. Now, WhatsApp has adopted the feature with its “View Once” option. Photos and videos sent using this feature will be deleted straight after being opened and viewed. WhatsApp says the feature will be useful for sending temporary information, like passwords. It’s also handy for those who don’t want every off-the-cuff snap they send to live on forever in their friends’ hard drives.

To send one of the disappearing messages, load up a picture or video as usual. Then tap the “1” button in the lower right corner to enable View Once mode.

Archived chats update

Finally, WhatsApp rolled out an important change to archived messages. Previously users could select to hide chats with groups or individuals from the main conversations screen. But whenever someone replied to an archived conversation, it would pop straight back up. This wasn’t ideal if you were truly trying to avoid an irritating contact – like that group chat for a stag party that’s still over a year away.

With the new update, archived chats will stay safely tucked away in their own folder, even if someone sends a new message. And it couldn’t be simpler to bring them back to the main chat screen through the Settings menu.

FBR thwarted the ‘Cyber Terrorism’.

Lahore (NUT-Desk)

On Pakistan’s 75th Independence Day, the official website of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBE) has been hacked by unknown hackers and the cyber attack affected “virtual environment of data center” primarily.

The FBR’s website is temporarily down for scheduled maintenance,” read the website when it was opened. An FBR official said, “It is cyber terrorism on our Independence Day, adding that the attackers have not yet been identified.

The hackers were making attempts to break the data rooms for the last few days and there was also a warning issued that a serious cyber-attack might take place soon, he added. He said Pakistan contacted Microsoft that was helping to recover it from the attack.

“Since the virtual environment has been damaged, we are trying to create a new virtual environment that may take up to two days,” said another official from the information technology department.

“We are trying to restore the websites by tomorrow afternoon and the essential data centre by tomorrow evening, as we do not want to cause more damage by shifting data in haste.”

However, the revenue collecting authority released a press release regarding in-progress service optimization activities at the FBR House Data Center, Islamabad.

The release read, “A technical team is currently migrating services. The completion of this migration shall result in the increased overall productivity of FBR IT Operations. This migration is necessary to facilitate the up gradation of the system in order to enhance the best services to our clients, the statement added.

“The stakeholders, who are being provided services from the data centre, are informed that there were unforeseen anomalies during the migration process, which has resulted in the unavailability of services, since early hours of the last night. The FBR team is ensuring restoration of services as soon as possible to keep the downtime to a minimum. This activity is expected to be completed in the next 48 hours.

“FBR regrets and apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciates continued cooperation of the stakeholders.”