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Google Tightens Security for Tap-to-Pay on Wallet with New Unlock Requirements

April 15, 2024

Highlights

Google Wallet now requires device unlock for every tap-to-pay transaction.
New three-minute unlock limit tested on Pixel 8 devices.
Google’s security approach moves closer to Apple Pay’s transaction verification.
Changes may soon be implemented widely as part of security enhancements.

Users have noticed that Google is now requiring them to unlock their devices for every tap-to-pay transaction, regardless of the amount.

Previously, this verification step was not always necessary, especially for smaller purchases made shortly after unlocking the device.

Tighter “Recently” Unlocked Window

Google Wallet now requires device unlock for every tap-to-pay transaction

While Google’s support documents state that verification methods like fingerprint or PIN are required if the device hasn’t been “recently” unlocked, the definition of “recently” seems to be tightening.

Many users, including 9to5Google, have noticed this unlock window becoming shorter.

Three-Minute Unlock Limit Observed

Google Tightens Security for Tap-to-Pay on Wallet with New Unlock Requirements

In testing, 9to5Google found that on a Pixel 8 smartphone, Google Wallet now prompts for re-verification if more than three minutes have passed since the initial device unlock.

A new “For your security, you need to verify it’s you before paying” message appears at this point.

Interestingly, this three-minute verification limit did not manifest on other Pixel phones used in the same tests by 9to5Google.

This suggests Google may still be testing this behavior or has not widely rolled it out across all devices yet.

Inching Closer to Apple Pay’s Approach

Google Pay App to Shut Down in US, Merges with Google Wallet — New three-minute unlock limit tested on Pixel 8 devices

For comparison, Apple Pay on iPhones requires biometric or passcode authentication for every single tap-to-pay transaction without exceptions.

While still providing slightly more flexibility, Google’s changes move Google Wallet closer to Apple’s stricter verification model for contactless payments.

Potential Wider Rollout Forthcoming

Google’s security approach moves closer to Apple Pay’s transaction verification

Although the findings indicate Google has not implemented this tighter verification across its entire user base so far, the observed changes could signal the company’s intent to enforce more frequent device unlocks for all Google Wallet tap-to-pay transactions in the near future as an added security measure.

FAQs

What is the new security update for Google Wallet?

Google has updated its security protocols for Google Wallet, now requiring users to unlock their device for every tap-to-pay transaction.

This change is designed to enhance security by ensuring that the device has been recently verified by the user before any payment is processed.

How does the new unlock requirement for Google Wallet work?

Under the new security measures, Google Wallet users must authenticate their identity through a device unlock, such as a fingerprint or PIN, if more than three minutes have passed since the last unlock.

This ensures continuous security verification during transactions.

Why did Google implement these tighter security measures?

Google’s decision to enforce stricter unlock requirements for tap-to-pay transactions aligns with a broader industry trend towards enhancing security for digital payments.

This move helps prevent unauthorized transactions and increases user protection against potential fraud.

Are the new Google Wallet security updates consistent across all devices?

The tighter security updates, including the three-minute unlock limit, have currently been observed on Pixel 8 smartphones, but not uniformly across all Google devices.

This suggests that Google may still be in the process of testing these changes or preparing for a broader rollout.

Also Read: MIT’s PhotoGuard Technology: Protecting Images from Malicious AI Edits and Unauthorised Access

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Also Read: Top 5 AI Photo Editors To Use For Mind Blowing Transformations

YouTube Music Releases Winter Listening Recap for December to February

Team My Mobile

April 14, 2024

Highlights

YouTube Music’s winter recap covers listening habits from December to February.
Recap accessible through the mobile app or a dedicated URL.
Features include top artists, tracks, albums, and listening moods.
Users encouraged to save the recap playlist before the next update.

While most seasons come and go, YouTube Music has taken its time unveiling users’ personalized listening recaps for the winter months.

Despite spring’s arrival last month on March 19th, the streaming service is only now widely rolling out its seasonal recap highlighting music consumption from December through February.

Tardy but Welcomed Retrospective

YouTube Music Releases Winter Listening Recap for December to February

The delayed winter recap began appearing for some YouTube Music users earlier this week, much later than Google typically releases these quarterly roundups.

Rather than a catchy seasonal name, this recap is simply titled “December-February ’24” with fairly generic cover art.

Users would be wise to manually add this auto-generated playlist to their libraries before the next seasonal recap becomes available and replaces it.

Accessing the Recap

YouTube Music's winter recap covers listening habits from December to February — YouTube Music’s winter recap covers listening habits from December to February

To view your own “December-February ’24” listening recap, open the YouTube Music mobile app (Android or iOS) and tap your profile picture in the top right corner. The “Your Recap” option should appear there.

Alternatively, users can navigate directly to yt.be/music/recap, although this URL currently only works on mobile devices.

Insightful Listening Breakdown

YouTube Music introduces sorting options and international podcast recommendations — Users encouraged to save the recap playlist before the next update

As with previous recaps, this winter edition provides users with an insightful story-like breakdown of their listening habits over the past three months.

Key stats highlighted include top artists, tracks, albums, genres, playlists, and even the most listened-to moods.

A summary section displays the total listening time accumulated, while those who enable Google Photos integration can enjoy a personalized musical photo album – otherwise generic images are used.

While admittedly lighthearted this time, the rollout of YouTube Music’s winter recap allows users to at least check out their recent musical tastes and discoveries before shifting focus to the sounds of spring.

FAQs

What is the YouTube Music winter recap?

The YouTube Music winter recap is a personalized summary of a user’s listening habits over the winter months, specifically from December to February.

It includes detailed analytics like top artists, favorite tracks, and preferred genres, providing users with a reflective look at their music consumption during these months.

How can users access their YouTube Music winter recap?

To access the winter recap, users should open the YouTube Music app on either Android or iOS and tap their profile picture to find the “Your Recap” option.

Alternatively, they can visit yt.be/music/recap on their mobile devices to view the recap directly.

What features does the YouTube Music winter recap include?

The recap offers a comprehensive breakdown of listening statistics, including top artists, favorite tracks, most played albums, and the genres listened to.

It also shows the most common moods associated with the music played and provides a total of listening hours.

Why was the release of the YouTube Music winter recap delayed?

The specific reasons for the delay in releasing the winter recap by YouTube Music are not clearly stated, but it typically involves the time taken to compile and analyze extensive user data to create a personalized and accurate summary of three months’ worth of listening activity.

Also Read: YouTube Music Rolls Out Offline Listening for Desktop and Updates Android Share Sheet

Also Read: YouTube Music Introduces Activity Feed and New Creator Content Disclosure Policy

Also Read: YouTube Premium: 5 Things That Unlock Enhanced Streaming in India

Breakthrough in Holographic Technology Using iPhone Screens Unveiled

Team My Mobile

April 14, 2024

Breakthrough in Holographic Technology Using iPhone Screens Unveiled

Highlights

New technique generates 3D holograms using an ordinary iPhone.
Method bypasses expensive lasers, using screens and spatial light modulators.
Research demonstrates cost-effective holographic displays.
Potential future applications in VR, commercial, and military sectors.

While holographic technology has long been a staple of science fiction visuals, creating realistic holographic displays has typically required expensive and complex laser systems – until now.

In a breakthrough, researchers at Optics Letter have demonstrated the ability to generate 3D holographic images using just the touchscreen of an ordinary iPhone.

Moving Beyond Costly Laser Systems

Traditionally, the only way to produce holographic projections has involved utilizing sophisticated and costly laser emitters.

However, this new approach leverages more affordable and accessible components, potentially opening up holographic displays for a wider range of virtual reality applications and use cases.

Coordinating Screen and Spatial Light

New technique generates 3D holograms using an ordinary iPhone

The researchers, whose findings were published in the journal Optics Letters, revealed they were able to create a two-layer, full-color 3D holographic image by combining an iPhone 14’s screen with a spatial light modulator.

One layer was projected via the modulator, while the iPhone’s screen itself displayed the second layer.

Through careful algorithm modeling, the team coordinated the light output from both sources to produce a realistic-looking holographic display akin to those created by expensive laser setups.

Complex Coordination, Affordable Result

BOE Leading Contender for iPhone SE 4 Display — Research demonstrates cost-effective holographic displays

While the methodology may seem simple, achieving this holographic effect required highly intricate modeling and coordination between the iPhone screen and spatial light modulator.

However, the researchers’ efforts paid off by demonstrating holographic visuals can be achieved through more cost-effective means compared to the prohibitively expensive laser systems previously required.

Potential for Scaling and Commercialization

iPhone 13 vs iPhone 15 — Potential future applications in VR, commercial, and military sectors

Although hologram technology has seen some limited use before, such as NASA “teleporting” a doctor to the International Space Station, this iPhone screen breakthrough could open new avenues.

Looking ahead, the researchers aim to explore ways to scale up and enhance the technology for potential commercial or military applications now that an affordable foundation has been established.

By tapping into the power of commonplace smartphone screens, realistic 3D holographic displays may soon become much more accessible and widespread across various industries and consumer applications.

FAQs

How does the new holographic display technology work?

The recent breakthrough in holographic technology involves using the touchscreen of an iPhone combined with a spatial light modulator to create realistic 3D images.

The iPhone screen displays one layer of the hologram, while the modulator projects the second layer.

Synchronized through sophisticated algorithms, this setup mimics the effect of high-end laser systems but at a fraction of the cost.

What are the advantages of using iPhone screens for holographic displays?

Utilizing iPhone screens for creating holograms offers a more accessible and cost-effective alternative to traditional laser-based systems.

This method allows for the production of high-quality holographic visuals without the need for expensive equipment, making the technology more feasible for broader applications.

What potential applications could this holographic technology have?

This innovative approach to holographic displays opens up possibilities in virtual reality environments, augmented reality applications, advertising, education, and even military planning.

The technology could be used to enhance user experiences by providing more immersive and interactive visuals.

What challenges did researchers face in developing this technology?

Developing this technology required intricate coordination between the light output of an iPhone screen and a spatial light modulator.

The researchers had to carefully align and synchronize the images from both sources using complex algorithms to ensure the hologram appeared realistic and three-dimensional.

Also Read: iPhone SE 4 Likely To Include USB Type-C, 48MP Camera, And, More: Report

Also Read: iPhone SE 4 Redesign Rumours Point to an iPhone 14-like Look

Gmail Set to Launch New Subscription Management Tool for Easier Inbox Control

Team My Mobile

April 14, 2024

Highlights

Gmail develops new “Manage subscriptions” feature to streamline email control.
New tool enables viewing and managing email senders by volume directly in the app.
Users can quickly unsubscribe with a single tap using an intuitive interface.
Imminent rollout suggested as users encounter preliminary feature prompts.

Signing up for newsletters and updates from websites you’re interested in is convenient, but those subscriptions can quickly accumulate and clutter your inbox.

While Gmail has made unsubscribing from individual emails easier with its unsubscribe button, managing multiple subscriptions could soon become much more streamlined.

A Dedicated Subscription Manager

Two new options in Gmail app

1. Manage Subscriptions – No idea what it’s about. Because tapping it opens an infinite loading screen.

2. Report illegal content – In action bar of every email. It links to this page –

Hidden behind flags.#Google #Gmail pic.twitter.com/hoK4B4VFIC

— AssembleDebug (@AssembleDebug) January 13, 2024

It appears Google is developing a newa “Manage subscriptions” option for the Gmail app that will provide greater control over the various newsletters and promotional emails flooding your inbox.

Evidence of this upcoming feature has been spotted in Gmail’s code since January, but recent updates have shed more light on its capabilities.

In the latest Gmail version 2024.04.07.622678535, developers were able to enable the subscription managing tool through hidden flags.

Accessible via the sidebar menu, this dedicated “Subscriptions” page will likely allow users to view and interact with a list of their most prolific senders.

Filtered by Volume

Gmail Set to Launch New Subscription Management Tool for Easier Inbox Control

Based on code strings discovered, this subscriptions list appears to categorize senders into separate sections based on the volume of emails received per quarter – fewer than 10 emails, between 10-20 emails, or more than 20 emails.

For each subscription source, users can expect to see the company logo alongside a convenient unsubscribe button for quickly opting out with just a tap.

Rollout Imminent

Gmail develops new "Manage subscriptions" feature to streamline email control — Gmail develops new “Manage subscriptions” feature to streamline email control

While the feature isn’t fully active yet, some Gmail users have already reported seeing prompts to try out the new subscription manager, only to encounter a blank page.

This suggests the rollout is likely approaching, with Google potentially just needing to flip a server-side switch to enable it across Gmail’s user base.

By providing a centralized hub for visualizing and acting on your various email subscriptions, this tool could help Gmail users regain control of overcrowded inboxes and cut through the promotional noise more efficiently.

FAQs

What is the new “Manage subscriptions” feature in Gmail?

Gmail’s upcoming “Manage subscriptions” feature is designed to help users easily control their email subscriptions directly within the app.

This tool will allow users to view a list of their subscription emails categorized by the frequency of messages received and offers a straightforward option to unsubscribe from unwanted senders.

How does the Gmail subscription manager work?

The subscription manager in Gmail categorizes email senders based on the volume of emails they send per quarter. Users can view these categories and manage subscriptions through a dedicated page accessible from the Gmail sidebar menu.

Each listed sender will feature a company logo and an unsubscribe button for user convenience.

Where can I find the new subscription management tool in Gmail?

Once rolled out, the “Manage subscriptions” option will be available in the sidebar menu of the Gmail app.

This placement makes it easily accessible, allowing users to efficiently manage their email interactions without searching through settings or individual messages.

What are the benefits of using Gmail’s new subscription management feature?

The primary benefit of this new tool is its ability to help users declutter their inboxes by providing a centralized platform to view and manage all email subscriptions.

This feature simplifies the process of unsubscribing from unwanted emails and helps maintain a cleaner, more organized inbox.

Also Read: Google Wallet Advances Digital Wallet Capabilities with New QR and Barcode Feature

Also Read: Google Wallet Expands Features to Revamp Commute Experience

Also Read: Google Pay App to Shut Down in US, Merges with Google Wallet

Motorola Edge 50 Ultra Set for Global Launch with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

Team My Mobile

April 14, 2024

Highlights

Motorola Edge 50 Ultra features Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
Prototype achieves high scores in Geekbench benchmarks.
Expected to include a 50MP triple camera and 165Hz OLED display.
Launching globally on April 16 alongside Edge 50 Pro and Fusion.

Motorola is set to officially unveil its new Edge 50 series of smartphones, including the flagship Edge 50 Ultra model, at a global launch event on April 16th.

But ahead of that, the top-tier Ultra variant has already surfaced on the Geekbench benchmarking platform, offering a sneak peek at some of its impressive hardware.

The Geekbench listing reveals the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra will be packing some serious performance power thanks to Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.

This cutting-edge processor is paired with a hefty 12GB of RAM in the tested configuration.

Impressive Early Benchmark Results

Motorola Edge 50 Ultra Set for Global Launch with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

According to the benchmark scores, this Edge 50 Ultra prototype is no slouch when it comes to raw processing muscle.

It achieved a high single-core CPU score of 1,947 and an even more impressive multi-core result of 5,149.

Of course, these are just early performance figures likely from a pre-production test unit.

We’ll have to wait for the final retail version to see its true optimised capabilities.

The listing also hints at some of the nitty-gritty chip specifics, like a high-performance core running up to 3.01GHz, four cores capped at 2.8GHz, and three efficiency cores topping out at 2.02GHz – all fitting the known specs of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 silicon.

Edge 50 Series Incoming

Motorola Edge 50 Ultra features Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip

Besides this Ultra flagship, Motorola’s upcoming Edge 50 range is expected to include at least two other models – the Edge 50 Pro and Edge 50 Fusion.

The Edge 50 Pro has already launched in India earlier this month starting at Rs 31,999 for an 8GB/256GB version bundled with a 68W charger.

As for the top Ultra variant, leaks suggest it could debut as the Edge+ 2024 or Edge Ultra 2024 in some markets like the US.

Rumored specs include a 50MP triple rear camera setup and a large 6.7-inch 165Hz OLED display.

With its impressive hardware as teased by this Geekbench appearance, the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra is shaping up to be a true performance beast when it breaks cover alongside its Edge 50 stablemates on April 16th.

Motorola Edge 50 Specs

GENERAL

Sim Type	Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim	Yes
Sim Size	Nano SIM
Device Type	Smartphone
Release Date	April 04, 2024 (Expected)

DESIGN

Dimensions	161.2 x 74 x 8.6 mm (6.35 x 2.91 x 0.34 in)
Bezel less	Yes
Colors	Interstellar Black, Lunar Blue

DISPLAY

Type	Color OLED Screen (1B Colors)
Touch	Yes, 480 Hz Touch Sampling Rate
Size	6.72 inches, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 165 Hz
Aspect Ratio	20.5:9
PPI	~ 392 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio	~ 90.5%
Glass Type	Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Plus
Features	Dolby Vision, DCI-P3 colour space, Peak Brightness: 1300 nits, Curved Display
Notch	Yes, Punch Hole

MEMORY

RAM	12 GB
Storage	256 GB
Storage Type	UFS 4.0
Card Slot	No

CONNECTIVITY

GPRS	Yes
EDGE	Yes
3G	Yes
4G	Yes
5G	Yes
5G Bands	1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6
VoLTE	Yes, Dual Stand-By
Vo5G	Yes
Wifi	Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Wifi Version	Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
Bluetooth	Yes, v5.3, A2DP, LE
USB	Yes, USB-C v3.2
USB Features	USB on-the-go, USB Charging

EXTRA

GPS	GPS, A-GPS, LTEPP, SUPL, GLONASS, GALILEO
Fingerprint Sensor	Yes, In Display
Face Unlock	Yes
Sensors	Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass
3.5mm Headphone Jack	No
NFC	Yes
Water Resistance	Yes, 1.5 m upto 30 min, Water-repellent Design
IP Rating	IP68
Dust Resistant	Yes

CAMERA

Rear Camera	200 MP 1/1.55″, 1.0µm, multi-directional PDAF, OIS f/1.8 (Wide Angle) 50 MP 114˚, 1/2.76″, 0.64µm, AF f/2.2 (Ultra Wide) 12 MP 1/2.93″, 1.22µm, PDAF, 2x optical zoom f/1.6 (Telephoto) with autofocus
Features	panorama, HDR
Video Recording	4K @ 30 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30 fps FHD
Flash	Yes, Dual LED
Front Camera	Punch Hole 60 MP 1/2.8″, 0.61µm f/2.2 (Wide Angle)
Front Video Recording	4K @ 30 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30 fps FHD

TECHNICAL

OS	Android v14
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen3
CPU	Octa Core Processor
GPU	Adreno GPU
Java	No
Browser	Yes

MULTIMEDIA

Email	Yes
Music	Yes
Video	Yes
FM Radio	No
Document Reader	Yes

BATTERY

Type	Non-Removable Battery
Size	4600 mAh, Li-Po Battery
Fast Charging	Yes, 150W Fast Charging
Wireless Charging	Yes, 50W
Reverse Charging	Yes, 5W
Talk Time	32 hours

FAQs

What are the key features of the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra?

The Motorola Edge 50 Ultra is equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, complemented by 12GB of RAM. It boasts impressive benchmark scores, indicating high performance levels.

Additional rumored features include a 50MP triple rear camera setup, a large 6.7-inch OLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, ensuring vibrant visuals and fluid motion for gaming and video playback.

What did the Geekbench results reveal about the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra?

The Geekbench listing for the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra shows a single-core score of 1,947 and a multi-core score of 5,149, reflecting its robust processing capabilities.

These scores are indicative of the smartphone’s ability to handle intensive applications and multitasking efficiently, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.

How does the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra compare to other models in the Edge 50 series?

The Edge 50 Ultra is the flagship model in Motorola’s new Edge 50 series, which also includes the Edge 50 Pro and Edge 50 Fusion.

While all models share a commitment to quality and performance, the Ultra variant stands out with its advanced features such as the latest Snapdragon chip, higher RAM, and superior display and camera specifications.

What can consumers expect in terms of design and display from the Edge 50 Ultra?

Consumers can anticipate a modern design with a large 6.7-inch OLED display boasting a 165Hz refresh rate on the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra.

This high refresh rate enhances the smoothness of scrolling and responsiveness, making it ideal for gaming and high-speed content. The design focuses on maximizing the display area while ensuring comfortable ergonomics and premium aesthetics.

Also Read: Motorola’s New TVC Brings Alive ‘Intelligence Meets Art’ Starring Brand Ambassador Kriti Sanon and Introducing Babil Khan as Moto AI Ally for the Launch of Motorola Edge50 Pro

Also Read: Motorola Announces New Delhi Event for April 3, Edge 50 Pro Expected

Huawei P70 Pro Rumours Hint at High-End Camera Features and Unique Design

Team My Mobile

April 14, 2024

Highlights

Huawei P70 Pro rumoured to feature a triangular camera array.
Expected to include a 50MP main sensor with advanced imaging capabilities.
Powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9010 chipset for top-tier performance.
Launch delayed due to potential production and technical challenges.

At its latest product launch event, Huawei took the wraps off the new MateBook X Pro 2024 laptop and FreeBuds Lipstick 2 wireless earbuds.

However, the Chinese tech giant opted to keep its much-awaited Huawei P70 smartphone series under tight wraps for now. Even so, details about the smartphone have been leaking out.

P70 Design Leaks Out

Huawei P70 Pro Rumours Hint at High-End Camera Features and Unique Design

Although Huawei remained tight-lipped about the P70 smartphone at the event, an alleged hands-on photo of the device’s rear panel has now surfaced on Chinese social media.

The leaked image reveals the P70 sporting a rather unique triangular camera array design – an unconventional look that had previously appeared in early rumor renders of the upcoming handset series.

Rumored P70 Specs and Variants

Huawei P70 Pro rumoured to feature a triangular camera array

According to reports, the P70 lineup is expected to consist of four models when it eventually launches – the standard P70, plus P70 Pro, P70 Pro+, and P70 Art variants.

It’s tipped that all four could be powered by Huawei’s in-house Kirin 9010 chipset.

Camera capabilities may be a key focus too, with the P70 and P70 Pro rumored to pack 50MP OmniVision main sensors with large 1/1.3-inch sizes.

The Pro+ and Art editions could step things up further with even bigger 1-inch Sony IMX989 primary cameras.

Reasons For Delayed Launch

Powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9010 chipset for top-tier performance

So just why is the P70 series launch facing delays after so much buzz and leaks?

There are a few potential reasons behind Huawei holding it back at this event:

1) Technical difficulties – The phones may be facing unresolved hardware or software issues that need more time to iron out pre-launch.

2) Production delays – Huawei’s supply chain could be facing challenges in manufacturing sufficient initial P70 units for a wide release.

3) Marketing prep – The company may simply need more time to ready marketing campaigns and promotional materials around its next flagship series.

Whenever Huawei does finally unveil the P70 lineup, it will undoubtedly try to make a big splash – especially if the unique camera designs and high-end imaging capabilities live up to the early hype.

But for now, the MateBook X Pro 2024 gets to bask in the spotlight as Huawei’s latest flagship mobile product.