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Whats New On the Android 15 Update Coming in October

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Android 15 is expected to be released to the public in October later this year. Currently, it is available in beta for eligible devices. And if you are wondering if your phone will get the shiny new Android 15 update? It’s simple to find out. Start by checking the official list of eligible devices on the Android Beta website or your phone manufacturer’s website. If you’re rocking a recent Google Pixel model like the Pixel 7 or Pixel 8, you’re in luck—you’re in the VIP line for this update. For other brands like Samsung, OnePlus, or Xiaomi, keep an eye out for announcements about their respective rollouts. And if your phone didn’t make the cut, well, it might just be the universe telling you it’s time for an upgrade. So astrology babes might be onto something, Listen to the Universe. After all, you deserve that new phone, life’s been brutal.

What’s New in Android 15?

Android 15 is shaping up to be a significant update with several new features aimed at improving user experience, security, and performance. Here’s a look at some of the most exciting additions coming with Android 15:

1. Edge-to-Edge Mode

Android 15 introduces an edge-to-edge mode allowing apps to utilize the full width of the display, providing a more immersive experience. This feature will be particularly noticeable on devices with gesture navigation enabled.

2. Partial Screen Recording

Users will now be able to record or share specific app windows instead of the entire screen. This feature enhances privacy and focus, allowing you to share only what’s necessary without exposing other on-screen content.

3. Improved Bluetooth Management

The Bluetooth tile in the Quick Settings menu has been revamped. A short press now brings up a dialogue box showing paired devices and options to switch between them or connect new ones. This update makes managing Bluetooth connections more intuitive and user-friendly.

4. Satellite Connectivity Support

Expanding connectivity options, Android 15 integrates satellite connectivity, enabling devices to maintain communication even in remote areas. This ensures a consistent user experience regardless of location. Right there catching up to iPhones who rolled out satellite connectivity last year.

5. Universal Toggle for Keyboard Vibration

A new system-wide toggle for keyboard vibration settings allows users to control haptic feedback intensity across all keyboard apps, enhancing the typing experience.

6. Enhanced Foldable Support

If you are using a foldable device this one is for you. Android 15 brings better continuity features for foldable devices, such as seamless transitions between the cover screen and the main display. It also allows users to save split-screen app combinations for easier multitasking.

7. Health and Fitness Enhancements

Are you a gym bro integrating technology to aid you in tracking fitness and keeping records? The update includes enhancements to Health Connect, supporting new data types for health and fitness apps. It also extends support for virtual MIDI 2.0 devices, fostering creativity in music production.

8. HDR and Audio Controls

Android 15 introduces controls for HDR headroom and loudness, ensuring a balanced and consistent audio and visual experience across different content types.

9. Performance and Security Upgrades

The update brings significant improvements to the Android Dynamic Performance Framework, including new APIs for better hardware optimization and security features like the Privacy Sandbox on Android. These enhancements aim to provide a smoother, more secure user experience.

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Spotify Has Quietly Hiked Prices in Kenya

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Spotify, the worldwide music streaming giant, has unexpectedly raised its subscription prices in Kenya. This change impacts all subscription levels, ranging from the economical Premium Mini to the extensive Family plan.

Spotify has just announced that it will raise the prices across all its subscription tiers in Kenya. This increase reflects how much one will have to pay to access premium features of the music streaming platform, with a new price change that applies to several user plans. This move is part of a wider trend within the streaming industry, where globally, these platforms inflate their prices in response to inflation and increased operational costs. Beginning today, users in Kenya will pay more to listen to their favorite music streaming services as Spotify continues to add more features and music to the platform.

The prices in Kenya have risen by 13.3 percent to 40.8 percent depending on the particular subscription. The wide range shows that some plans only have a moderate adjustment, while others see substantial rises. That is to say, many users are likely reviewing their current subscriptions or their more financially apt tiers. Specific reasons for these particular percentage increases have not been discussed, but this shows the platform’s intention: keeping profitability with competitive services.

Amongst the lot of subscription options, Premium Mini received the highest increase in percentage terms. The plan, previously the most affordable that gave access to Spotify’s premium features for either a day or a week, is now one of the relatively dearer options compared to other tiers. This steep increase may particularly affect users who rely on short-term premium access for occasional use and encourage them to either upgrade to longer-term plans or switch to other streaming platforms.

Here’s a comprehensive look at how Spotify’s prices have changed for Kenyan subscribers:

PlanOld PriceNew PriceIncreasePercentage Increase
Premium Mini (1 week)KES 49KES 69KES 2040.8%
Premium Individual (monthly)KES 299KES 339KES 4013.4%
Premium Student (monthly)KES 149KES 169KES 2013.4%
Premium Duo (monthly)KES 389KES 439KES 5012.9%
Premium Family (monthly)KES 479KES 549KES 7014.6%
  1. Premium Mini:The most economical choice experienced the largest percentage rise, at 40.8%. Such a substantial increase could affect users who depend on weekly subscriptions and are mindful of their budgets.
  2. Premium Individual and Student: Both plans saw a 13.4% increase. Although the absolute increase for students is smaller, the percentage rise is the same as that of the individual plan.
  3. Premium Duo:This couples’ plan experienced the smallest percentage increase at 12.9%, potentially rendering it a more appealing option for couples aiming to save.
  4. Premium Family: The price of the most expensive plan rose by 14.6%, potentially impacting households dependent on shared accounts.

For individuals seeking to optimize value, the Duo and Family plans may provide greater cost-effectiveness for those who are eligible. Students are advised to keep their verification current to maintain access to reduced rates.

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Infinix’s Hot Launch; The All New Hot 50 Series is Here

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Over the last couple of months, Infinix has been making waves in the smartphone market, and their recent attempt at solidifying this move looks set to serve Kenyan consumers as the smartphone manufacturer launches their latest series of budget-friendly gadgets, and oh are they something. 

The newly launched budget phone is the Infinix Hot 50i with functional elements users on a tight budget will find quite appealing. The budget-friendly market is where real competition exists if you ask me. Here’s whats on paper so far.

Infinix Hot 50i

The Infinix Hot 50i, part of the same Hot 50 series, brings its own set of features, which is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81, which is paired with 4GB of RAM.

However, this RAM can be expanded to 8GB, providing users with more flexibility depending on their usage requirements. This model offers similar performance in day-to-day tasks but at a more affordable price point.

Infinix Hot 50i Specs

  • Display: A large 6.7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and 120Hz refresh rate.
  • Processor: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 processor, for smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
  • RAM and Storage: Available in configurations of 4GB or 6GB RAM, which can be virtually extended up to 8GB. The device also boasts a generous internal storage capacity of 256GB.
  • Camera System: 48MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies.
  • Battery Life: 5000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging.
  • Audio: Dual DTS speakers designed to enhance sound quality, making it ideal for music lovers and media consumers.
  • Operating System: Runs on XOS based on Android 14, providing a user-friendly interface with various customization options.
  • Additional Features:  A side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security, a USB Type-C charging port, and TÜV’s 48-month performance certification for long-term reliability.

Infinix Hot 50i Pricing

The Hot 50i is available in the Kenyan market at a price of KES 13,699, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable, yet capable smartphone.

The phone comes three attractive color options: Sleek Black, Sage Green, and Titanium Grey.

It will be widely available in retail stores after September 30th. Stay tuned to watch us review these units and give you a hands-on review of whether this should be your next phone or why not.

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New WhatsApp Feature Lets You Mention Contacts In Status Updates

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WhatsApp has recently added a new feature to its Status updates, allowing users to tag contacts directly.

Currently available on Android for users with beta version 2.24.20.3 or higher, this update introduces a @ button that lets you mention specific contacts in your Status.

Once tagged, they receive both a notification and a message, ensuring they won’t miss your update. Tagged contacts can also reshare your Status, but only they will see their mention, preserving privacy.

Unlike Instagram, WhatsApp keeps the identity of the original Status creator hidden when tagged contacts reshare it. One key thing to note is that if you’ve blocked someone from viewing your Status, they can still see it if tagged using this feature.

This update, along with WhatsApp’s other hidden features, aims to make interactions more personal and dynamic on the platform.

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