Google might soon let you use custom hotwords to launch Google Assistant

Maurizio Pesce/Flickr

If you don’t quite feel like saying “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” to activate Google Assistant, you might not need to do so in the future. 9to5Google found some code in the latest Google app update that seem to be laying groundwork for being able to use custom hotwords to activate the AI assistant. The code shows how you can create a new custom hotword and teach Google Assistant to recognize it. The original two hotwords will still work even with the new addition. The feature hits Google’s mobile app first it seems but there is no word when it’ll come to Google products like the Home speaker. We’re confident we’ll hear more from Google when this gets official.

Source: Lifehacker

OnePlus releases OxygenOS Open Beta 3 for the 5T, introduces iPhone X-like gestures and removes Clipboard

The latest beta build for the OnePlus 5T brings some important new features to the device. One addresses the controversial issue surrounding the Clipboard functionality of the phone. The Chinese company simply took out the feature, which they say they’ve done based on user feedback. Aside from this, OxygenOS Open Beta 3 introduces new navigation gestures that are reminiscent of the iPhone X’s. You can activate these through Settings and disabling the navigation bar. The Home button vanishes and you can swipe up from the middle part of the bottom of the display to access apps. You can go back by swiping up from the left or right bottom part of the screen. If you want to access the multitasking screen, you just swipe up from the middle and hold.

OnePlus has also included a security patch to get additional protection against Spectre vulnerability alongside other bug fixes and improvements. If you’re already using beta, the update should come to your device via an over-the-air update. If you want to try beta out, you’ll need to read flashing instructions from this link.

Source: GSMArena

Apple reportedly delaying iOS visual enhancements to focus on performance and stability

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

A report today says that Apple is foregoing a visual update to iOS to focus on performance and stability enhancements on stability and security. Apple's iOS hasn't had a major visual overhaul since 2013 with iOS 7.

A report from Axios states that Apple's engineers will focus on improving performance, battery life as well as security will receive attention over visual redesign and a new look. This includes delaying some interface features, new photo-taking features, photo editing and sharing features. The iPhones 8 and X are already superior cameras, delaying new features this year won't make an impact.

I think this is a great move. iOS 11 has been generally a good update when used with new devices but seems to show its cracks when running on older iPhones or iPads. This is a case where the plumbing and electrical systems require repair before Apple can consider adding a new facade and splash of fresh paint. 

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First trailer of Ant-Man and the Wasp brings promise of fun from MCU

On the heels of a well-received Thor:Ragnarok and what looks to be a cultural phenomenon in Black Panther, Marvel is looking to run up the fun with Ant-Man and the Wasp which pairs Paul Rudd with Evangeline Lily and also has Michael Douglas reprising his role as inventor Hank Pym. Looks like Ant-Man and the Wasp will restore some joy after what is expected to be a very dark Avengers: Infinity War which hints at the demise of some Marvel heroes.