Apps
WhatsApp crafts new shortcut so you can quickly place calls
WhatsApp Beta v2.24.5.5 comes with evidence citing a new favorite contacts tool to quickly place calls. At present, this new WhatsApp feature is under development, with Public release expected with a future release of the app.
Once available, WhatsApp favorite contacts will prominently display at the top of the calls tab. This minor yet significant change will enhance access to frequently contacted users with just a single tap.
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Using the app’s contact picker function, WhatsApp users will be able to choose their favorite contacts. Simply put, the platform is seeking to offer an intuitive shortcut for initiating calls directly from the calls tab.
📝 WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.5.5: what's new?
WhatsApp is working on favorite contacts to quickly place calls, and it will be available in a future update!https://t.co/oWq5GFkNbb pic.twitter.com/dTbRXwSYHO
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) February 21, 2024
Apart from this, WhatsApp is also working to ban your phone’s ability to take screenshot of profile photos. Similar to private gallery and payments app, the screenshots feature will stop working on WhatsApp profile photos.
Apps
Google Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
Google just added a feature that lets you report accidents, slowdowns, and other road issues directly from your car’s display. Well, it is currently limited to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.
Similar to Waze, Google Maps on CarPlay now has a button to report accidents, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, objects on the road, and even speed traps. Just like before, you can still see reports from other drivers about these issues on your route.
By reporting issues, you can help other drivers avoid traffic jams and accidents. With everyone contributing information, Google Maps can provide more accurate traffic conditions and ETAs.
Unfortunately, Android Auto users are still left out. We’ve been asking Google to add this feature for a while now, so hopefully it’s coming soon!
This feature is new and might not be available to everyone yet. In the meantime, stay safe on the roads and report any issues you see on Google Maps if you’re using CarPlay.
Apps
Google working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
Google Photos app is about to take your video editing a step further. A hidden feature found in app version 6.90 hints at an upcoming video speed editor (via Android Authority). This means you’ll be able to ditch third-party apps and adjust video playback directly within Google Photos.
The video editor offers various speeds like 1/4x for super slow-mo or 4x for fast-forwarding. You can even choose to adjust the entire video or just a specific section, perfect for highlighting key moments. It’s still under development, so expect a more user-friendly icon instead of the current “1x” placeholder.
Additionally, future updates might allow you to fine-tune the speed of different parts within the same video for even more control.
This upcoming video speed editor marks a significant upgrade for Google Photos, making it a more comprehensive video editing tool. Keep an eye out for this update to add some fun and flexibility to your video editing experience.
Apps
Google Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
Contacts app’s version 4.35 suggests that Google is working on a Besties Widget. The app’s forthcoming Besties Widget has the exact layout as the Favorite widget and shows starred contacts.
9to5Google spotted that Google Contacts for Android will soon get a new Besties Widget. Meanwhile, the APKTeardown has not revealed the functionality or widget design.
It is expected that the new Besties Widget will replace the Favorite widget. As of now, the widget hasn’t reached its functional stage, however, a future update to the app will bring significant development.
It is assumed that the widget’s development is currently in quite early phases. Recently, the Contacts app updated its individual contact widget with the ability to display notifications.
You can download the app from the Google Play Store for your Android device for free.
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