2019 - For You

Monday 18 March 2019

ANDROID ROOMhority | Android Q doesn�t let apps automatically toggle Wi-Fi: Here�s why that concerns us || AGUMA.ONLINE

It's been a week since Google surprised us with the first Android Q developer preview, and we're still sifting through all the changes. Now, a redditor has noted one key tweak that could have repercussions for task automation apps.

Reddit user xxTheGoDxx discovered a passage on the Android Q developer website, confirming that apps will no longer be able to automatically toggle Wi-Fi connectivity. Instead, Google recommends developers use the new settings panel functionality, which shows system settings directly inside apps.

This is an issue for people who love apps such as Tasker, which allows people to automate tasks and system settings based on a variety of triggers. The change theoretically means you can't automatically enable Wi-Fi when you get home, for example.

Tasker creator Jo�o Dias has indeed confirmed that it would affect his app "in a big way," but has expressed optimism that Google will address the issue in subsequent releases.

It's true.This would affect Tasker in a big way.A lot of users like to turn on/off their wifi automatically in various situations. I'm hoping that since this is just beta 1 that Google will look at all the negative feedback on this and other restrictions and implement permissions

� Jo�o Dias (@joaomgcd) March 18, 2019

The team behind security app Cerberus has also confirmed to Android Authority that toggling Wi-Fi via text commands will no longer work thanks to the new policy.

This isn't Google's only major app-related change in recent months though. The search giant tweaked its calling and SMS permissions late last year, forcing developers to apply for an exemption if their app fell foul of the change. Tasker was initially caught out by the change, but Dias was able to successfully apply for an exemption. The Cerberus team was less lucky though, as it was forced to remove SMS-based commands in the Play Store app.

NEXT: Five years of Wear OS and it's still too messy to recommend

Imore | Add Bluetooth to any vehicle or sound system for $12 with iClever's Audio Adapter || AGUMA.ONLINE

Just stream it.

There's no reason why you should be tied down to wired devices when products like iClever's Bluetooth Transmitter and Receiver Audio Adapter exist. At its regular price of $30, it's more than worth the cost, but now you can snag one for just $11.99 at Amazon when you click this link first. If you missed the last time we posted this, you're still getting a good deal, as today's price is less than $2 more expensive.

This compact 2-in-1 device can be used in so many ways. It can let you start using Bluetooth in your car by acting as a receiver, or you could hook it up to an old stereo of yours as a transmitter. It's even capable of wirelessly connecting to two Bluetooth devices at once.

With Bluetooth 4.1 and aptX Low Latency technology, you'll be able to listen without audio delays or static. Plus, its internal battery can last for up to 15 hours of use, so you won't have to recharge it too often. An 18-month warranty is included by iClever with its purchase, along with a lifetime support guarantee.

See at Amazon

Theverge | How to set up emergency location sharing on Android and iOS || AGUMA.ONLINE

Smartphones are spectacular for snapping photos, scanning the news, and sending messages, but they can also be literal lifesavers if you take the time to set them up before the need arises.

Both Android and iOS have easy-to-use systems for sharing your location with a friend, family member, or other trusted contact in an emergency. You can even create connections that'll allow you to check up on loved ones to see if their phone has detected movement lately and then request an automated location update if you're unable to reach them.

The key to all of this is to configure your emergency system ahead of time so it'll be available in case an actual emergency occurs. Take two minutes now, and then rest easy knowing your phone's ready.

The simple option for iOS

If you've got an iPhone, Apple offers a built-in Emergency SOS system that gives you a quick way to call 911 (or the equivalent emergency service provider) and then alert a group of predefined emergency contacts � all in one fell swoop.

To start, you need to tell your phone who your emergency contacts are:

Open the Health app.
Tap the "Medical ID" tab.
Tap "Edit." (If you haven't yet created a medical ID, you'll need to do that first.)
Find the "Add emergency contact" option, and add however many people you want.

Apple's iOS Health app holds the key to configuring emergency location sharing on an iPhone.

Now, if you're ever in an emergency situation with an iPhone 8 or later:

Press and hold the power button along with either volume button, and you'll see an "Emergency SOS" countdown appear on your screen.
Keep holding both buttons until the countdown ends.
Your iPhone will automatically call 911, and as soon as the call disconnects, the phone will text your emergency contacts with your current location.

If you have an iPhone 7 or earlier, press the power button five times fast, then drag your finger across the Emergency SOS slider that appears on the screen to initiate that same process.

iphone emergency contacts — *iOS emergency info page.*

Android emergency contacts — *Android emergency info page.*

The simple option for Android

Android doesn't have a similar all-in-one function, though it does provide a way to offer emergency services information about a preassigned emergency contact from the lock screen. While the setup may differ somewhat depending on what phone you have and which version of Android it runs, the basics should be the same.

Go to your phone's lock screen. (You don't have a screen lock set? Why not?)
Look for the word "Emergency" at the bottom of the lock screen. Tap on that.
Tap on "Emergency information" and then on the pencil symbol (or, depending on your phone, on "Add"). You'll be asked to put in your PIN or lock pattern.
This will bring you to your Emergency information screen where you can add personal information (such as blood type or any existing medical conditions) and any contacts you want to be notified.

The advanced option for Android or iOS

For a more robust setup in which you can share and request locations with trusted contacts � without needing to make a 911 call � download Google's Trusted Contacts app for Android or iOS. Once you've signed in, create your list of connections.

Tap the "Add Contacts" box on the app's main screen.
Find and tap the name of anyone you want to add.
Once that person has approved your request (and installed the app onto their phone as well), you'll always be able to see if they've been active recently and also if their phone's battery is critically low.

google trusted contact emergency sharing

Then, if you ever want to send a location alert:

On the app's main screen, select the person with whom you want to share your location.
Tap "Send location alert now."
Your location will be shared for 24 hours or until you hit the "Stop" button.

And to request someone else's location:

Tap the person's name on the app's main screen.
Tap "Ask for [person's] location."
The app will alert the person to your request, and if they don't respond within a set period of time, it'll automatically share their location with you.

By default, Google's Trusted Contacts app will share a requested location after five minutes without a response.

It's the type of thing you hope you'll never need, but with loved ones, in particular, it can bring valuable peace of mind to have it standing by just in case.

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Imore | Which color should you select on the 2019 iPad Air? || AGUMA.ONLINE

The 2019 iPad Air is available in three color choices: silver, space gray, and gold. The color choice, of course, is up to you! Here are some things to consider for each option to help you make your selection.

Classic color

Silver 2019 iPad Air

With a white front, the silver model can draw more attention and provide an excellent bright bezel for e-reading activities. Although this might be a minor distraction, it also won't show as much damage through normal usage.

starting at $399 at Apple

Out of this world

Space Gray 2019 iPad Air

With a dark finish throughout, the space gray iPad Air won't distract you when you're gaming or watching a video. It also won't discolor, although it might show wear and tear a little bit more than the others.

starting at $399 at Apple

Gold, not silver

Gold 2019 iPad Air

Gold stands out and offers a bright bezel for e-reading activities. The white front might become a distraction for some, but it won't show long-term damage. For those tired of silver, this is the one to select.

starting at $399 at Apple

Fade to black vs. bright white

Before you consider your iPad's rear case color, consider the hue around your screen: The silver and gold iPads have white faceplates, while the space gray iPad models use a black bezel.

Some prefer the look of black � which, like almost all TV sets these days, lets the border practically disappear into the screen. But a black faceplate is also prone to showcase fingerprints and smudges and may prove distracting to brighter content. In contrast, if you use your iPad as a personal reader, a white bezel can prove easier on the eyes when reading websites, documents, and ebooks with bright or white backgrounds.

Ideally, the faceplate shouldn't prove too distracting in practice for all but the pickiest of eyes, making it more personal preference than anything else.

If a white faceplate catches your eye � and not in a good way � you'll want to consider the Space Gray iPad line.
If you find a black bezel too constraining or contrasting, stick with a white faceplate by selecting a Silver or Gold iPad Air.

Discoloration versus damage

A big concern with white, silver and other brightly-colored products is the chance for discoloration; dark colors have issues too, with casings often showing scratches, chips, and smudges more easily.

Apple spent much of 2010 figuring out how to make the white iPhone resistant to UV and typical sources of discoloration. The iPads have used the same process for years, making them just as resistant. Still, if it's a significant worry, there's no harm in sticking with Space Gray.

Likewise, the iPhone 5 and iPad mini taught Apple that black anodization was more susceptible to damage than it ought to be; instead, all other devices � iPads included � get space gray, a lighter (but tougher) anodization that rates about the same as other colored aluminum shells where scratches are concerned. That said, space gray still tends to show dust, smudges, and fingerprints more than the other colors in Apple's iPad line.

If you're concerned about picking up excess dust and smudges, or you have to photograph your device often, stick to silver or gold. If you're worried about color discoloration, you shouldn't be � but space gray may allay your fears.

Popularity vs. personality

Black is almost always the most popular color when it comes to electronics and electronics accessories. And while Space Gray may not look as cool as "true" black, it'll likely still be the default color for many. That said, lighter-colored iPads can stand out more, especially with brightly colored cases; Space Gray iPad models tend to let accessories be the star.

If you want a reliable (and popular) color, it's hard to resist Space Gray.

Case vs clean

Apple's iPads are more durable than ever, but they're still large pieces of glass. We generally recommend that if you plan to use your iPad anywhere, you might risk a drop, a case is a good idea. But even if you're planning on locking your iPad Pro, iPad, or iPad mini at the moment it leaves the box; you'll still see much of the device's original color.

For one, most cases don't cover the faceplate; others may protect the screen and keep the rear casing entirely unprotected.

Choose a color you love, then add a case you dig to complete the look. (After all, they're accessories because they accessorize!) If you already have a great case, pick the iPad color that either makes it pop (black) or helps it shine (white). Either way, make sure you love the iPad you get, regardless of accessories you may or may not add to it later.