Google’s TalkBack screen reader is getting new features available first on Galaxy phones

Google has partnered with Samsung to create a new version of TalkBack, an accessibility service that provides spoken feedback of what’s shown or happening on screen. TalkBack was released in the early days of Android, but in 2018, Google rolled it into the Android Accessibility Suite app alongside other services aimed at helping users with disabilities use their smartphone.

At Galaxy Unpacked, Google’s Hiroshi Lockheimer announced the new version of TalkBack, stating that it’ll be “available first on Galaxy.” The Galaxy S21 series was the star of the show at the event, so it’s likely that Samsung’s latest flagships will be the first to take advantage of Google’s revamped screen reader service.

“As part of our commitment to make computing as accessible to everyone, we’ve collaborated with Samsung to develop a new version of TalkBack, a Google screen reader, available first on Galaxy. This can really help shape the future of how everyone interacts with their phones.” Hiroshi Lockheimer, SVP of Platforms & Ecosystems at Google.

Google followed up this announcement with a brief mention of the revamped TalkBack in a blog post. The company says that “TalkBack has been revamped so that people with blindness or trouble seeing their displays can use spoken feedback and gestures to navigate their phone without having to look at the screen.” We reached out to Google for clarity on what features have been added to this revamped version of TalkBack, and we received the following statement:

“TalkBack is a Google screen reader included on Android devices. Using spoken feedback and gestures, it offers a full phone experience without needing to look at your screen. Collaborating with the blind and low vision communities, this revamped version of TalkBack features many of users’ top wish list items: new, more intuitive multi finger gestures, a unified menu, new reading controls and customizable menus and gestures.” – Google spokesperson

We were told that the new version of TalkBack will be coming to more devices soon.

Google has updated the Android Accessibility Suite app with new features for TalkBack only a handful of times in the past. Back in October of 2020, the company actually released new multi-finger gesture options, while in April of 2020, the company added a Braille keyboard. We don’t have screenshots to share showing the revamped TalkBack, but if you decide to pick up a Galaxy S21 or own a recent Galaxy device, you’ll be first to experience the new version.

Android Accessibility Suite (Free, Google Play) →

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Apple blocks users from sideloading iOS apps on M1 Macs

Soon after Apple launched its M1 Macs, a tool was released that allowed users to sideload unsupported iOS applications. A few months later, and Apple has blocked this workaround.

Up until now, users were able to download the tool iMazing and install unsupported .IPA files. That meant users could run iOS apps like Netflix and Instagram, which aren’t available to download on M1-equipped Macs. But a server-side update from Apple has now made doing this much more difficult, if not impossible.

“The change itself was made to the App Store system that delivers the actual .IPA file and it is all part of Apple’s APIs that manage the DRM (Digital Rights Management) protections of the operating system,” 9to5Mac explained. “Because of this, it’s unlikely that a workaround will present itself in the future.”

Credits: 9to5Mac

An error message displays when users attempt to sideload an iPhone or iPad app on an M1 Mac running macOS Big Sur 11.2 beta. The popup explains that iOS apps that are sideloaded can’t be installed because “the developer did not intend for it to run on this platform.” Users running macOS Big Sur 11.1 are also met by an error message.

When the M1 chip was introduced, it opened up the potential for iPhone and iPad apps to run natively on its newest machines. And while many apps are available to download through the Mac App Store, developers can opt-out of their apps being made available on the Mac. As a result, a lot of popular apps aren’t yet available for M1 Macs, hence why sideloading was such a big deal.

As Apple moves its entire lineup of Macs exclusively to M1 chips (or whatever successor is to come), hopefully, these developers will make their apps available. 9to5Mac said if you have apps that are sideloaded on your M1 Mac, they should still run. But if you try to install new applications, you’re out of luck.

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Apple may be working on a foldable iPhone to take on Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold

Samsung was one of the first companies to really nail the foldable smartphone form factor. But just as the company is gaining a strong foothold in the segment, Apple is reportedly hot on its heels.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is eyeing the possibility of releasing a foldable iPhone, although a potential release is likely years away. The company has allegedly developed prototypes for internal testing, but rather than creating fully realized devices, Apple has reportedly procured foldable screens to analyze their longterm viability. “Apple has internally discussed a number of foldable screen sizes, including one that unfolds to a similar size as the 6.7-inch display on the iPhone 12 Pro Max,” Bloomberg said in its report.

The foldable displays that Apple has tested reportedly feature an invisible hinge, with the electronic components located behind the screen similar to the Galaxy Z Flip. In contrast, Microsoft launched the Surface Duo last year, which did have a visible hinge that separated the device’s display panels.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip.

If a foldable iPhone ever does come to fruition, it’s unclear if it will replace the current form factor or complement the iPhone lineup as it exists now. Bloomberg warns that while Apple is open to the idea of a foldable iPhone, the project may get scrapped.

The report underlines how the smartphone market may evolve as a whole in the future. While foldable devices aren’t all that prevalent right now, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Galaxy Z Flip proved that they are viable—and they can be really, really good.

The downside is that foldable devices are expensive. But as the necessary components come down in price, that may not be as big of an issue down the road. As the technology evolves and prices stabilize, foldable phones could potentially become the dominant form factor across the industry.

In the meantime, Bloomberg provides a few early details about the 2021 iPhone, which is said to feature relatively minor changes. One such upgrade could be an in-screen fingerprint sensor, giving users a convenient way to unlock their phone when Face ID fails. In the age of masks, the return of Touch ID to a flagship iPhone could be big. Apple has also discussed removing the charging port in favor of its wireless MagSafe charging system, according to Bloomberg. Lastly, the company reportedly plans a new iPad Pro that has a MiniLED display and a faster processor, as well as a new entry-level iPad with a slim profile like the 2019 iPad Air.

Featured image: Apple’s iPhone 12 Pro Max

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Apple reportedly eyeing subscription podcast service

Apple offers one of the most widely used podcasting apps on the market, and a new report claims the company is looking to put more resources behind the medium.

According to The Information, Apple is in discussions to launch a premium podcast service that would feature access to original content for a monthly fee. The latest rumor builds on an earlier report from Bloomberg that claimed Apple is exploring ways to expand into original programming in podcasts.

Apparently, Apple’s goal is to use the service to complement Apple TV+. One possibility is for these original podcasts to be a spinoff of shows already on the video streaming platform. The other possibility is for these original podcasts to be written with the intent of eventually becoming a show or movie on Apple TV+.

Apple is also reportedly exploring original podcasts in an effort to compete against the likes of Spotify, which has built a strong lineup of exclusive podcast content, including The Joe Rogan Experience. Apple has allegedly approached production companies about collaborating on original content, although The Information warns that we may not ever see a finished product.

The Information suggests that Apple could try to entice creators by offering the opportunity to earn more money. Outside of these few details, the report doesn’t reveal when such a service might launch or how much it will cost, although it does mention the possibility of users paying for individual podcasts.

If that’s the case, Apple’s premium podcast service may not charge a monthly free. Rather, it might allow podcast creators to charge for individual episodes, or a series, at their discretion.

Apple already offers a variety of different services, including Music, TV+, News+, Fitness+, Arcade, and iCloud—all of which can be subscribed to individually or in a bundle. While adding premium podcasts to the mix seems like the logical next step, they better be extremely compelling in order to convince people to pay.

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Samsung SmartThings integration with Google Nest goes live

Google and Samsung have confirmed that the promised tighter integration between Google Nest and Samsung Smartthings has been launched, following its announcement at the end of last year. Although quietly announced alongside yesterday’s Samsung Unpacked launch, reports on Reddit suggest it actually went live at the start of the week, offering control for Nest cameras, thermostats and doorbells inside the Smartthings app, for the first time.

Even now, it’s not a complete integration. Nest Secure security systems and Nest Protect smoke alarms are excluded, as they use a different API, and most disappointingly, Google’s smart speakers are also missing from the list, although Google Nest Hub Max’s camera can be added to your Smartthings CCTV system.

It’s not all one-sided, with Google Assistant control being added to a range of Samsung appliances, offering a more complete experience. This is on top of the arrival of Google Assistant on Samsung TVs and the launch of Smartthings integration with Auto.

As ever, devices, especially third-party devices are only as good as the developer implementation of the API, so it may be a while (if ever) before you start to see some of the outlying products appearing in the Google Home app. If you’re a developer involved in smart home products, you can find out more about what’s possible and how to implement it right here.

Google said in a statement: “We’re also working with Samsung to make it easier to manage smart home products from your device. You can control Nest devices, like Nest thermostats, cameras and doorbells, from the SmartThings app on Galaxy smartphones and tablets. See all your connected devices on one screen by tapping on “Devices” in the Quick Panel of the Galaxy S21.”

2021 looks to be a pivotal year for smart homes, and this is just the beginning. Google and Samsung are working to deepen integration between their products, including a simpler ongoing process. Later this year, we’re expecting to hear details of a much-needed common standard for smart home devices, launched by a consortium including Amazon, Google, Apple and the members of the Zigbee Alliance (of which Samsung is one) under the umbrella of “Project Connected Home Over IP”. When that launches, we can expect to see the smart home revolution accelerate at an even faster rate.

 

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Best Galaxy S21 Plus Clear Case to buy in 2021

The Galaxy S21 Plus is finally official and alongside the regular Galaxy S21, and it comes in a few colors. If you’ve picked up the gorgeous Phantom Violet Galaxy S21, you’ll want to protect it while also ensuring you can show off the stunning Violet and Gold color scheme. After all, why buy this unique color if you can’t show it off, right? Clear cases are a great way to achieve this, but they provide varying levels of protection. Some are thin and cheap and provide only the most basic of protection, while others are thicker and provide more protection. Whatever your style of case, we’ve rounded up the Best Galaxy S21 Plus Clear case that you should buy below!

Official Clear Cover

Basic, Official

This is the most basic case that is available from Samsung officially. Since it is a first party case, the dimensions should all be exactly to fit your device with very little wiggle room.

$20 at Samsung

Official Clear Protective Case

Official Clear Protective Case

This clear protective case is a step up from the base variant on sale from Samsung. It has also been drop-tested to MIL-STD-810G Transit Drop standards, and is available in two colors.

$40 at Samsung

Official Clear Standing Case

Official Clear Standing Case

This is a standing version of the clear case, sold officially by Samsung. The company does charge a good premium over other standing cases, but you pay for the first-party nature and the brand.

$35 at Samsung

SQMCase Shockproof Silicone Cover with Ring

Military Grade Protection

If you want a case that is clear and shows off the beauty of your new phone, while also providing serious protection, look no further than SQMCase. Although this case doesn't have reviews yet, the company's other cases are very highly rated. This case also comes with a built-in ring holder which doubles as a kickstand for propping the phone up when you want to watch a movie!

$11 at Amazon

ESR Metal Kickstand Case

Protection with a kickstand

If you want a solid kickstand and reinforced drop protection, look no further than ESR, who have been making cases for over 10 years. This flexible polymer case provides protection while showing off your phone, and the metal kickstand is perfect for those times you want to prop up your phone. The unique position of the kickstand means, unlike most cases with a kickstand, you can prop your phone up both horizontally and vertically.

$15 at Amazon

Olixar Ultra Thin Clear Case

Ultra-thin and effective

If you want a case that's ultra-thin and provides basic protection, the Olixar Ultra Thin Clear Case for the Galaxy S21 is a great buy. This flexible silicone case is designed for those who want something thin and clear, and it's wireless charging compatible so you won't block you from charging without plugging a cable in. Keep in mind that this offers only some basic protection, so don't drop your phone too hard.

$8 + delivery at Amazon

Spigen Ultra Hybrid

Trusted name in the game

Spigen cases are one of our trusted recommendations from personal use, and this Ultra Hybrid line delivers on its goals. The back is made of durable polycarbonate, while the side is a TPU bumper all through. This case is available in two colors: Crystal Clear and Matte Black, so pick and choose depending on your taste for the bumper.

$14 at Amazon

Cyrill Floral Pattern Clear Case

For some pizzazz

If you're looking beyond just a clear case, you can explore printed patterns on the clear case. For instance, this clear case has a printed floral pattern on the back, adding some more character to your device while also letting you show off the phone and protect it at the same time.

$17 at Amazon

dbrand customizable skin

29 color options to customize your phone

If you've got the Black (or even the silver) color, you might want to add a splash of color and customize your phone with a dbrand skin. Ok, so it's not a clear case we know, but it will make your phone shine through that new clear case of yours! This is also a great option if you're not a fan of Samsung's choice of Gold and Purple but want the gorgeous light purple color – just add a light skin to the camera area for just $2 and voila, you've got a really unique phone!

Up to $15 at dbrand

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Clear case options can be overwhelming, and we do agree with you. For the vast majority, what you can purchase would be reliant on the budget you have leftover after the purchase of your device. If you have store credits leftover from a previous offer, you should definitely give the official Samsung ones a shot, for they are the ones that promise the best compatibility, but they also aren’t cheap by any means. If you want something cheaper, Spigen is a tried and trusted name, and we’ve used several of their products (including this lineup) on other phones to recommend them. You can also get some kickstand cases to make it easier to consume content when your phone is propped up on a table, and you don’t necessarily need to get Samsung’s version just to enjoy this functionality. If you are just looking for basic scratch protection and really dislike tacking on any bulk to your phone, then the Dbrand skins should be your top choice, even though they are not a clear case. Either way, we do recommend that you get a case, because Samsung will not be including one in the box. While you’re at it, grab a charger too.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is the middle child in the new 2021 flagship series, packing in a flagship SoC and a premium build, along with a decent display and camera setup.

Pre-order on Samsung.com

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Best Galaxy S21 Ultra Clear case to buy in 2021 for your new phone!

If you’ve pre-ordered a brand new Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, you’re probably going to want to protect it. One of the best ways to go about doing so is by picking up a rather bulky case, though that comes at the cost of hiding the beautiful design of your new smartphone. If you’re willing to compromise on protection in order to show off your new device, then you can’t go wrong by picking up a clear case instead. The Galaxy S21 Ultra has just come out, but there are already some options for Galaxy S21 Ultra clear cases that you can pick up!

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Official clear cover

Crystal clear

This is Samsung's official clear case, and it's one of the most barebones that you can get.

$19.99 at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Official clear protective

Crystal clear

This is Samsung's official clear protective case, providing slightly more protection.

$39.99 at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Official clear standing cover

Perfect for videos

This is Samsung's official clear standing case - great for watching videos with your phone propped up!

$34.99 at Samsung

Spigen Ultra Hybrid S

Spigen's best

This is a clear case from one of the best in the business - Spigen. It's completely clear and offers a lot of protection.

$14 at Amazon

Spigen Neo Hybrid

Enhanced protection

This is a clear case from one of the best in the business - Spigen. It's not quite as clear, though it offers more protection.

$16 at Amazon

ESR Clear Case

Slim and light protection

This is a clear case from ESR that'll protect your smartphone from everyday bumps.

$10 at Amazon

Restoo Hard Case

Slim and light protection

This is a pretty basic cheap and clear case from Restoo that protects your phone.

$11 at Amazon

ATRAING Clear Case

Slim and light protection

This case from ATRAING is cheap and clear, and it's anti-yellowing to prevent discoloration.

$14 at Amazon

Ringke Frost Matte Case

Frosted Matte finish

This case from Ringke comes with a Frosted Matte finish, giving your phone a unique spin.

$11 at Amazon

If you’re going for a nice clear case to show off your smartphone’s design, then any of the above will do the job for the most part. Some are cheaper than others, while some are more protective than others. The bulkier the better for protection, so it’s up to you to decide which is the best for you. If you have Samsung store credits, you should definitely pick one up directly from Samsung, since those cases offer guaranteed compatibility with the phone with the tightest tolerance. These first-party cases are made by Samsung for the Galaxy S21 Ultra specifically, so there’s no way you can go wrong with them. But, admittedly, they are a bit expensive, and the options on Amazon are surprisingly cheaper. You can get options from Spigen and Ringke, both of whom are reputable by this point for their offerings across a variety of devices. The Spigen cases are the ones that we have personally used on a lot of different phones over the years, so we can attest to their quality. The Ringke case has a quite unique frosted matte finish, giving your phone a different spin with its look and finish. The other options are decent too, so pick one that suits your needs and budget!

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is the ultimate overkill in the new 2021 flagship series, packing in a flagship SoC, a premium build, a great display, and an amazing camera setup, as well as all the extras expected on a premium flagship.

Pre-order on Samsung.com

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