Google is reportedly developing a "try new features" trial environment for its Maps app, allowing users to test upcoming functionalities. A potential feature in this trial is an "Ask Maps" button, which may utilize Gemini technology to offer enhanced suggestions for local events. Google has been integrating AI features into Maps, including improved review summaries and smart suggestions, and is transitioning from Assistant to Gemini for better voice command recognition and responses.
The Epic Games Store has announced updates to enhance user experience and expand its offerings, including a revamped user interface, enhanced search functionality, and improved social features. Additionally, Epic is supporting developers through a competitive revenue sharing model, funding for indie developers via the Epic MegaGrants program, and access to Unreal Engine technology. These initiatives aim to create a user-friendly platform and nurture a thriving developer community.
A suite of essential Android apps can enhance the fitness experience for active individuals or beginners. These apps include:
- FitNotes: A digital workout log that allows users to create and edit routines, track performance with a calendar function, manage exercises, and monitor sets, reps, and time. It features a built-in rest timer and allows data export in CSV format. The app is free and ad-free.
- Hevy: A gym log workout tracker that helps users plan workouts with tools and metrics. It includes an extensive library of free instructional videos, allows logging of metrics, marking sets, and creating custom exercises. Hevy calculates one-rep maxes and provides muscle group analysis, with Wear OS support for tracking via smartwatches. The app is free, ad-free, but includes in-app purchases.
- Calorie Counter by Cronometer: A nutrition tracker that provides detailed calorie tracking and daily reports on macronutrients and micronutrients. It features photo logging for meals, a database of over a million foods, and tracks sleep and water intake. The free version is ad-supported, with subscription options for additional functionality.
- Libra Weight Manager: A weight tracking app that allows users to enter their weight daily and receive analyses of body composition and BMI. It features dynamic charts for visualizing metrics and history, and compatibility with Withings scales for data integration. The app is free to download, ad-supported, and includes in-app purchases for some features.
TotalAV Antivirus provides real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It features advanced scanning technology, continuous monitoring, and system optimization tools. The software includes a cloud-based scanning engine for zero-day threats and a VPN for encrypted browsing. TotalAV has achieved a 100% malware detection rate with zero false positives in independent tests. It offers three subscription plans: TotalAV Premium (3 devices), TotalAV Internet Security (6 devices), and TotalAV Total Security (8 devices), each with varying features and prices. Users report satisfaction with its performance and ease of use, and it includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Windows Task Scheduler automates various processes without third-party applications, enhancing productivity and system performance. It can manage tasks such as reminders, cleaning, maintenance, automated backups, script execution, event-based automation, and power management. Users can create basic tasks with triggers like specific dates or system events, allowing for efficient reminders and scheduled maintenance. Task Scheduler facilitates backup processes using commands like Robocopy, ensuring reliable data management. It supports script automation in multiple programming languages and offers event-based triggers for routine tasks. Additionally, it allows for custom power management, automating shutdowns and other commands based on user-defined criteria. Overall, it serves as a versatile tool for automating numerous functions within the Windows operating system.
Thomas Cook India Ltd. has launched the 'TC Pay' foreign exchange application for Android and Apple users, announced on Monday. The app serves business-to-consumer (B2C) customers, offering services such as forex card management, currency exchange, and international remittances. Key features include end-to-end digital fulfillment, real-time card tracking, and WhatsApp calling for support. TC Pay aligns with the trend of mobile-based remittances, which account for 60% of digital transfers globally, and reflects a shift in India towards digital payments, with over 93% of consumers using digital methods. The launch is seen as a strategic move to enhance Thomas Cook's digital presence and reach new markets. Despite this innovation, Thomas Cook India's shares fell by 1.12% on Monday, while the Nifty 50 index dipped by 0.18%.
UltraAV, an antivirus solution from Point Wild, has introduced significant enhancements to improve threat protection and user experience. Key updates include:
- Advanced AV Engine upgrades for faster scans and improved detection rates across versions 12.0, 12.3, 12.4, and 12.7.2.
- The ability to scan external USB devices and schedule recurring scans, introduced in version 12.8.
- Expanded privacy and identity protections for premium users, including identity theft monitoring and real-time fraud alerts.
- Seamless integration with Total Cleaner for premium subscribers, enhancing app reliability (versions 12.7 and 12.7.1).
- Self-protection features to safeguard UltraAV binaries from malware (version 12.8).
- URL filtering to block harmful URLs for Chrome users (version 12.4).
UltraAV is built on over 20 years of research and development, integrating real-time threat intelligence and AI-driven detection. Point Wild, the parent company, provides cybersecurity solutions to over 25 million users globally.
Microsoft is introducing a new Windows Update orchestration platform aimed at creating a unified update strategy that integrates apps, drivers, and all updateable components into a single system. This initiative follows challenges with the current update process, including a controversial security update that caused issues for users. The new platform is currently available for developers and app product teams to explore, and it aims to provide a more cohesive and efficient update experience.
Meta has launched a new app called Edits, designed to simplify video creation and editing for smartphone users. The app allows users to craft and share videos across various social platforms, although it will not serve as a social media feed. Edits includes features like an "inspiration tab" for trending content and audio, as well as an "ideas" space to encourage creativity. The app aims to consolidate the video production process into a single platform, addressing the complexities of using multiple applications. This initiative follows Meta's previous efforts to adapt to changes in social media dynamics, including the launch of Threads in response to user dissatisfaction with Twitter's management.
