Instagram announces Android to get offline mode

Reaching out to Instagram users with limited network connectivity or those without data plans, the social network is bringing offline support for its Android app as announced at Facebook's F8 developer conference. They started with Android first as it’s considered the preferred type of device in the developing world. According to Tech Crunch, Instagram is exploring the possibility of bringing it to iOS, too.

In offline mode, you will be able to see previously loaded content in your feed, profiles you visited before and old versions of the Explore tab will be visible, too. You’ll be able to leave comments, like photos, unfollow people, or save media. All these actions will then be carried over once you reconnect.

Microsoft does away with passwords, employs new phone-based login system

You might no longer need to sign into your Microsoft account with a password anymore. Microsoft launched a new Authenticator app that does away with passwords and its place makes use of a new sign-in feature via your smartphone. Once you have it set up, the app, which is available on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone, makes use of your mobile device to confirm your identity. When you need to sign into your Microsoft account somewhere on desktop, you just need to type in your username and then you’ll receive a notification on your phone to approve the login. Simply tap approve and you’re signed in. Aside from preventing unauthorized login attempts, the app can also provide unique code that works as second authentication factor for OAuth logins.

Source: Engadget

Google Search and Newsstand now has real-time NBA and NHL updates

Google is making it easier for you to keep up with your favorite NBA and NHL teams with the latest update to its Google Play Newsstand and Google Search apps. From Newsstand, you’ll be able to see dedicated NBA and Stanley Cup Playoffs sections. There you’ll get play-by-play information as well as other local and national news about the sports. Now if you don’t want to use Newsstand, you can simply go to Google Search. The updates will be displayed in Google’s “Knowledge Panels” so you can check everything there.

Source: Android Authority

Apple expected to launch three iPhone models this fall

Apple is expected to launch three new models of iPhone this fall. A marquee release given this is the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, has Apple doubling down on its offerings. The small but enduring iPhone SE was given more storage a few weeks ago, they added a red iPhone into the colour mix and for next-ge devices, are expected to release two iPhone 7s models (possibly 4.7-inch and a 5.5-inch model) and a more exclusive anniversary edution iPhone with an OLED display which fits the screen resolution of a larger iPhone Plus in a smaller iPhone body.

Other expectations are the integration of a possible glass-based Touch ID button that replaces the Home button and a horizontal camera array which is designed for AR (Augmented Reality), and Apple is considering various materials and treatments ranging from a curved glass design that is reminiscent of the original iPhone as well as aluminium and stainless steel reinforced frames. 

There's a lot at stake for Apple in this particular launch since the iPhone's general look has remained unchanged for three generations. While the company has improved performance, battery life, added water resistance and still has arguably the best cameras on smartphones, most of the changes have been around the addition of new colours. 

Source: Bloomberg