Latest news with #SamBeckman
Geeky Gadgets
26-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Android 16: Performance Issues You Need to Know
Android 16, with its Material 3 redesign, set out to redefine the user experience with a modern and expressive interface. However, as you explore its features, several shortcomings become apparent. These range from limited customization options to inconsistent design elements, raising questions about its readiness for a polished, stable release. In the video below from Sam Beckman delves into the key areas where Android 16 struggles and why addressing these issues is critical for its success.= Watch this video on YouTube. Lock Screen: A Missed Opportunity for Personalization The lock screen in Android 16 fails to meet the growing demand for personalization. While many users expect a dynamic and customizable lock screen, Android 16 offers only basic options, leaving much to be desired. Key issues include: A lack of a robust lock screen editor , preventing users from tailoring layouts to their preferences. , preventing users from tailoring layouts to their preferences. Limited clock styles with no depth effects or resizing options, resulting in static and outdated designs. No support for always-visible widgets or the ability to remove the clock entirely, frustrating users who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. These limitations make the lock screen feel rigid and uninspired, falling short of the customization standards set by competing platforms. Fingerprint Unlock Animation: Lacking Visual Appeal The fingerprint unlock animation in Android 16 is another area where the system feels underwhelming. Competing Android skins provide dynamic and visually engaging animations that enhance the unlocking experience. In contrast, Android 16's animation feels basic and outdated, failing to contribute to the overall polish and user satisfaction of the operating system. Navigation Bar: A Visual Inconsistency The navigation bar design in Android 16 introduces persistent issues that disrupt the interface's visual harmony. Key problems include: An intrusive presence that detracts from the overall flow of the interface. that detracts from the overall flow of the interface. Inconsistent background elements across apps, creating a disjointed and unpolished experience. These inconsistencies undermine the cohesive aesthetic that users expect from a modern operating system, making the navigation bar feel like an afterthought rather than an integral part of the design. Home Screen Customization: Falling Short of Expectations Android 16's home screen customization options are surprisingly restrictive, limiting your ability to create a personalized and engaging experience. Key shortcomings include: No ability to remove default widgets like 'At a Glance' or the search bar, which restricts layout flexibility. Lack of support for third-party icon packs and limited grid size options, reducing the scope for visual customization. No features like double-tap to lock or the ability to disable app labels, which are common in other Android skins. <liFlat and uninspired animations that lack the fluidity and responsiveness seen in competing systems. These limitations hinder the ability to craft a home screen that reflects individual preferences, leaving users with a less engaging experience. Third-Party Launcher Compatibility: A Step Backward For users who prefer third-party launchers, Android 16 presents significant challenges. Gestural navigation animations are tied exclusively to the stock launcher, leading to janky transitions and a less seamless experience when using alternatives. This restriction undermines Android's reputation for flexibility and customization, alienating a segment of users who rely on third-party launchers for their preferred interface. Quick Settings Panel: Design and Functionality Issues The Quick Settings panel in Android 16 struggles with both design and usability, making it feel clunky and outdated. Key concerns include: A poorly designed brightness slider and an unintuitive toggle editing interface that complicate basic adjustments. Inconsistent toggle shapes and limited functionality, such as the absence of flashlight intensity adjustment . . Cartoonish font styles and outdated Wi-Fi and data icons that detract from the panel's aesthetic appeal. These issues make the Quick Settings panel less intuitive and less visually appealing than those found in competing systems. Volume Panel: Overdesigned and Inefficient The volume panel in Android 16 is overly large and cluttered with unnecessary design elements. This overdesign makes volume adjustments less efficient, particularly for users who value simplicity and ease of use. A more compact and intuitive design would greatly improve the usability of this feature. Haptics and Refresh Rate: Missing Fine-Tuning Android 16 falls short in providing granular control over haptics and refresh rate settings, which are essential for a refined user experience. Notable issues include: No options to adjust keyboard vibration intensity or fine-tune haptic feedback settings, limiting user control. or fine-tune haptic feedback settings, limiting user control. Some devices default to a 60 Hz refresh rate without offering the option to choose during setup, reducing the smoothness and responsiveness associated with higher refresh rates. These oversights diminish the tactile and visual experience that users expect from a modern operating system, leaving room for improvement. Camera App: Performance Problems Persist The camera app in Android 16 continues to struggle with performance issues that impact photo and video quality. Key problems include: Persistent shutter lag and jittery video recording, which undermine the quality of captured moments. and jittery video recording, which undermine the quality of captured moments. Clunky lens switching during video capture and subpar portrait mode performance, with harsh cutouts and slow processing. An outdated cinematic blur feature that remains limited to 1080p resolution. Poor third-party app camera quality, particularly in apps like Instagram and TikTok, where image processing falls short. These shortcomings make the camera experience feel inconsistent and underwhelming, especially when compared to the competition. Refining Android 16 for a Better Future While Android 16's Material 3 redesign introduces a modern aesthetic, its potential is overshadowed by numerous usability and functionality issues. From limited customization options to inconsistent design elements and underperforming features, these shortcomings highlight the need for significant improvements. Addressing these concerns is essential for Google to deliver a competitive and satisfying user experience with Android 16. By refining these aspects, Android 16 could truly live up to its promise of a fresh and expressive operating system. Uncover more insights about Android 16 Material 3 Redesign in previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
11-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Your Dream Phone Home Screen in Under 5 Minutes (Seriously!)
Customizing your phone's home screen is an effective way to enhance both its functionality and visual appeal. By making a few intentional changes, you can create a personalized interface that reflects your style while improving usability. The detailed video below from Sam Beckman outlines practical steps to help you design a clean, organized, and visually cohesive home screen—all in under five minutes. Watch this video on YouTube. Step 1: Organize Your Apps for Easy Access A well-organized home screen starts with thoughtful app arrangement. Properly categorizing your apps ensures that your most-used tools are always within reach, while less frequently used apps remain accessible without creating clutter. Follow these steps to streamline your app layout: Place frequently used apps , such as messaging, email, or social media, on your main screen for quick access. , such as messaging, email, or social media, on your main screen for quick access. Group related apps into folders. For instance, create folders labeled 'Work,' 'Entertainment,' or 'Utilities' to keep similar apps together. Move rarely used apps to secondary screens to maintain a tidy and focused main screen. This method not only declutters your home screen but also saves time when searching for specific apps, making your phone more efficient to use. Step 2: Choose a Wallpaper That Sets the Tone The wallpaper you select serves as the foundation of your home screen's overall aesthetic. A well-chosen background can enhance the visual harmony of your interface without distracting from its functionality. Consider these tips when selecting a wallpaper: Opt for minimalistic designs , gradients, or nature-inspired images to maintain clarity and focus. , gradients, or nature-inspired images to maintain clarity and focus. Avoid busy or overly detailed patterns that can make icons and widgets harder to see. Explore built-in wallpaper libraries or third-party apps to find unique and high-quality options. A carefully selected wallpaper creates a cohesive backdrop, making sure your home screen is both visually appealing and easy to navigate. Step 3: Add Widgets for Enhanced Functionality Widgets are a powerful tool for improving your home screen's functionality. They provide quick access to essential information or controls without requiring you to open individual apps. To make the most of widgets, follow these suggestions: Choose widgets that display useful data , such as weather updates, calendar events, or fitness stats. , such as weather updates, calendar events, or fitness stats. Experiment with widget sizes and placements to ensure they integrate seamlessly into your layout. For example, a music widget allows you to control playback directly, while a clock widget can replace the need to open the clock app. Strategically placed widgets can make your home screen more efficient, helping you stay organized and informed at a glance. Step 4: Customize App Icons for a Unified Look Custom app icons can elevate your home screen's design, giving it a polished and cohesive appearance. Many smartphones offer built-in customization options, while third-party apps and launchers provide even more flexibility. Here's how to create a unified look with custom icons: Download icon packs that match your chosen theme, such as minimalist, retro, or vibrant styles. that match your chosen theme, such as minimalist, retro, or vibrant styles. Align your app icons with your wallpaper and widgets to achieve a harmonious design. For instance, a monochrome icon pack can create a sleek, professional look, while colorful icons can add a playful and dynamic touch. Customizing your app icons ensures your home screen feels intentional and visually consistent, enhancing its overall appeal. Step 5: Optimize Your Layout for Simplicity A clean and functional layout is essential for an effective home screen. By prioritizing simplicity, you can create an interface that is both visually pleasing and easy to navigate. Use these tips to optimize your layout: Limit the number of items on each screen to avoid visual clutter and maintain focus. and maintain focus. Use grid settings to evenly space icons and widgets, creating a balanced and organized appearance. Experiment with grid sizes to suit your preferences. For example, a 4×5 grid offers a spacious feel, while a 5×6 grid maximizes screen real estate. A streamlined layout not only enhances usability but also ensures your home screen remains aesthetically pleasing. Your Personalized Home Screen Awaits By following these steps, you can transform your phone's home screen into a space that is both functional and visually stunning. Organizing your apps, selecting the right wallpaper, incorporating widgets, customizing app icons, and optimizing your layout will result in a home screen that enhances your daily experience. Take a few minutes today to create a mobile interface that is uniquely yours—efficient, organized, and reflective of your personal style. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on Home screen customization. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Android News, Apple iPhone, Guides, Mobile Phone News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
05-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Still Frustrated? Everything iOS Needs to Fix (But Hasn't)
Apple's iOS is often celebrated for its sleek design and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. However, beneath its polished surface lie several limitations that restrict customization, functionality, and overall user experience. The video below from Sam Beckman provides more insights into the most prominent shortcomings of iOS, highlighting areas where it falls short compared to Android's more adaptable and user-friendly approach. Watch this video on YouTube. Customization: Limited and Constrained iOS provides only minimal options for personalizing your device, resulting in a rigid and uniform experience. The home screen is tightly bound by Apple's grid system, which forces app icons into predefined positions. Unlike Android, where you can freely place icons, resize widgets, or use third-party icon packs, iOS users must rely on cumbersome workarounds to achieve even basic customization. This lack of flexibility leaves users with fewer ways to make their devices feel truly personal. The dock, a central element of the interface, is similarly restrictive. It remains static, offering no options to adjust its appearance or functionality. While Apple introduced the App Library to help organize apps, its rigid categorization system often complicates app management. The absence of an alphabetical grid further exacerbates this issue, making it difficult to locate specific apps quickly. In contrast, Android's home screen design and robust customization tools empower users to tailor their devices to their unique preferences, offering a more dynamic and personalized experience. User Experience: Aesthetic Over Usability While iOS is often praised for its simplicity, this focus on aesthetics sometimes comes at the expense of usability. One notable example is the absence of a universal back gesture. On Android, users can swipe from the edge of the screen to navigate back, regardless of the app. In iOS, navigation relies on app-specific gestures or back buttons, which vary widely between apps. This inconsistency disrupts the otherwise smooth user experience and can lead to frustration. Another usability issue lies in the system vibration toggle. Unlike Android, which provides quick toggles for vibration and other settings in its notification shade, iOS buries this option deep within the Settings menu. This design choice makes adjusting basic preferences unnecessarily time-consuming, especially for users who frequently switch between silent and vibrate modes. These examples highlight how iOS prioritizes visual appeal over practical functionality, leaving users with a less intuitive experience. Keyboard Functionality: Falling Behind The iOS keyboard has long been a source of frustration for many users. Autocorrect often misinterprets context, leading to unnecessary and disruptive corrections that can slow down typing. Cursor placement is another weak point; moving the cursor to edit text feels clunky and less intuitive compared to Android's more precise controls, such as the ability to drag the cursor with a dedicated handle or use gestures for fine adjustments. While third-party keyboards like Gboard offer some improvements, they cannot fully integrate with iOS due to system restrictions. This lack of integration limits their functionality, leaving users with a subpar typing experience. For a platform as advanced as iOS, the keyboard's shortcomings stand out as a missed opportunity to enhance usability and productivity. Clipboard Management: A Missed Productivity Tool Clipboard functionality on iOS is notably limited, retaining only the most recently copied item. In contrast, Android offers a system-level clipboard manager capable of storing multiple copied items, allowing users to access and reuse them as needed. This feature is particularly valuable for multitasking and productivity, as it streamlines workflows that involve frequent copying and pasting. While third-party clipboard apps are available for iOS, they often come with drawbacks such as clunky interfaces, additional permissions, or subscription fees. These limitations make it difficult for users to achieve the same level of efficiency that Android's native clipboard management provides. For users who rely on their devices for work or creative tasks, this shortcoming can be a significant hindrance. Notification Handling: Clean but Restrictive iOS notifications are visually clean and well-organized, but they lack practical features that enhance usability. For instance, there is no quick swipe-to-dismiss option for notifications, requiring users to interact with each one individually. This can be particularly frustrating when managing multiple notifications at once. Additionally, notifications disappear from the lock screen after an hour, increasing the likelihood of missing important alerts. Spam filtering for calls and messages is another area where iOS lags behind. Android devices, particularly those from Google, use advanced AI to block unwanted communications more effectively. In comparison, iOS's spam filtering feels less robust, leaving users more vulnerable to spam calls and messages. These limitations highlight how iOS's notification system, while visually appealing, lacks the functionality needed to meet the demands of modern users. Home Screen Design: Stuck in the Past The iOS home screen, while functional, remains largely unchanged and uninspired. The inability to freely position icons or use third-party icon packs limits users' ability to personalize their devices. Although Apple introduced widgets to add some versatility, they remain less dynamic and customizable than those on Android. For example, Android widgets can be resized and interact with apps in more meaningful ways, offering greater utility. The App Library, intended to simplify app organization, often complicates it instead. Apps are sorted into rigid, predefined categories, and the lack of a universal alphabetical grid makes finding specific apps unnecessarily tedious. This rigid approach contrasts sharply with Android's more flexible and user-centric design, which prioritizes ease of use and customization. Navigation Gestures: Inconsistent and Frustrating Navigation gestures on iOS, while an improvement over older methods, still lack the consistency and intuitiveness found on Android. The absence of a universal back gesture is particularly frustrating. On Android, the back gesture works seamlessly across all apps, creating a cohesive and predictable experience. In contrast, iOS relies on app-specific navigation methods, which vary widely and disrupt the overall flow of using the device. This inconsistency can make navigating iOS feel disjointed, especially for users who are accustomed to Android's more uniform approach. Addressing this issue would significantly enhance the user experience, making navigation more intuitive and efficient. Final Thoughts While iOS excels in design and ecosystem integration, its limitations in customization, functionality, and user experience are difficult to overlook. From rigid home screen layouts to inconsistent navigation gestures, these shortcomings hinder the platform's overall usability. Addressing these issues would not only improve the iOS experience but also bring it closer to the flexibility and functionality that Android users have long enjoyed. For Apple to remain competitive, it must prioritize these improvements in future updates, making sure that iOS evolves to meet the needs of its diverse user base. Master iOS customization with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
24-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Master Your Pixel Phone : 15 Essential Hidden Tricks You're Missing Out On
Your Pixel phone is more than just a communication device—it's a powerful tool designed to simplify your life, enhance productivity, and reflect your personal preferences. While you may already be familiar with its core functions, there are numerous hidden features that can elevate your experience. By exploring these lesser-known tricks, you can truly unlock the full potential of your device and make it an indispensable part of your daily routine. The video below from Sam Beckman gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Master Gesture Controls for Seamless Navigation Gesture controls on your Pixel phone provide an intuitive and efficient way to navigate without relying on traditional buttons. These gestures streamline multitasking and reduce unnecessary taps, creating a smoother user experience: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access the app drawer quickly. Swipe down from the top to view notifications and access quick settings. Swipe from the left or right edge of the screen to go back to the previous page. By mastering these gestures, you can navigate your phone effortlessly, saving time and enhancing usability. Unlock Advanced Camera Features for Stunning Photos The Pixel phone's camera is renowned for its exceptional quality, but its advanced features can take your photography to new heights. Whether you're capturing everyday moments or artistic shots, these tools offer professional-level control: Activate Night Sight to capture vivid and detailed photos in low-light conditions. to capture vivid and detailed photos in low-light conditions. Use Portrait Mode to create a depth-of-field effect, making your subject stand out against a blurred background. to create a depth-of-field effect, making your subject stand out against a blurred background. Edit your photos directly in the gallery with tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and even remove unwanted objects. These features allow you to experiment with creative photography and ensure your pictures always look their best. Extend Battery Life with Smart Power Management Battery life is essential for staying connected throughout the day, and your Pixel phone includes intelligent tools to help you conserve power: Adaptive Battery learns your usage patterns and prioritizes power for the apps you use most frequently. learns your usage patterns and prioritizes power for the apps you use most frequently. Enable Battery Saver mode to limit background activity and extend your phone's runtime during critical moments. mode to limit background activity and extend your phone's runtime during critical moments. Monitor battery usage in the settings to identify and manage power-hungry apps. These features ensure your phone remains reliable, even during long days or heavy usage. Enhance Privacy and Security with Built-In Features Your Pixel phone prioritizes your privacy and security, offering robust tools to protect your personal information: Use the Privacy Dashboard to review and adjust app permissions, making sure apps only access what's necessary. to review and adjust app permissions, making sure apps only access what's necessary. Enable Screen Pinning to lock your phone to a single app when sharing it with others. to lock your phone to a single app when sharing it with others. Turn on App Lock to add an extra layer of security to sensitive applications. These settings give you greater control over your data, helping you safeguard your information from unauthorized access. Boost Productivity with Google Assistant and Smart Tools Google Assistant is a versatile tool that goes beyond simple voice commands, helping you stay organized and productive: Set reminders, send messages, and control smart home devices with hands-free voice commands. Create custom routines to automate tasks, such as turning off lights and playing relaxing music before bedtime. Use the assistant to quickly search for information, check the weather, or navigate to your next destination. By integrating Google Assistant into your daily routine, you can save time and focus on what matters most. Personalize Your Pixel Phone for a Unique Experience Your Pixel phone offers extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor the device to your preferences and needs: Organize your home screen with widgets, shortcuts, and folders for quick access to frequently used tools. Experiment with themes, wallpapers, and the Dynamic Color feature to create a cohesive and visually appealing interface. feature to create a cohesive and visually appealing interface. Customize app icons and notification settings to match your style and priorities. These personalization options ensure your phone feels like an extension of yourself, combining functionality with individuality. Stay Updated and Troubleshoot with Ease Your Pixel phone is designed to stay reliable and efficient through regular updates and built-in troubleshooting tools: Enable automatic software updates to receive the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. Use the Device Health feature to monitor your phone's performance and identify potential issues. feature to monitor your phone's performance and identify potential issues. Activate Safe Mode to diagnose and resolve problems caused by third-party apps. These tools ensure your device remains up-to-date and capable of handling any challenges that arise. Integrate Google Services for a Unified Digital Ecosystem Your Pixel phone seamlessly integrates with Google's suite of services, creating a cohesive and efficient digital experience: Sync your data across devices with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive, making sure you can access important information anytime, anywhere. Use Google Photos to automatically back up your pictures and videos, keeping your memories safe and accessible. Use Google Maps for real-time navigation and location sharing, simplifying travel and coordination. This integration enhances productivity and convenience, making your Pixel phone a central hub for managing your digital life. By exploring and using these hidden features, you can transform your Pixel phone into a versatile and indispensable tool. From advanced camera capabilities to productivity-enhancing tools like Google Assistant, these functionalities are designed to simplify your life and help you achieve more. Take the time to customize your device, optimize its performance, and integrate its features into your daily routine. With these tips, your Pixel phone becomes more than just a smartphone—it becomes a powerful companion for work, play, and everything in between. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on Pixel phone gesture controls. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
11-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 18 Secrets: Removing Annoying Banners & Hiding the Dock
iOS 18 introduces a range of customization options, offering users greater control over their iPhone's appearance and functionality. Among these features, the ability to remove shortcut notification banners and hide the dock stands out as a way to create a cleaner, more personalized home screen. The video below from Sam Beckman provides detailed instructions to help you implement these changes and optimize your device's interface. Watch this video on YouTube. Removing Shortcut Notification Banners When using custom app icons through the Shortcuts app, you may notice notification banners appearing each time you open an app. These banners can disrupt the seamless flow of your experience. Fortunately, iOS 18 provides two effective methods to eliminate these banners without compromising app functionality. Method 1: Add a 'Nothing' Action This method involves creating a shortcut that includes a 'Nothing' action before launching the app. By doing so, the system bypasses the notification banner entirely. This approach is straightforward and ensures a smoother app-launching experience. This method involves creating a shortcut that includes a 'Nothing' action before launching the app. By doing so, the system bypasses the notification banner entirely. This approach is straightforward and ensures a smoother app-launching experience. Method 2: Use 'Text' and 'Open App' Actions Another option is to combine a blank 'Text' action with the 'Open App' action. By placing the 'Text' action before the app launch, the banner notification is suppressed. While this method requires slightly more setup, it is equally effective in removing distractions and maintaining a clean interface. Both methods are designed to enhance your home screen experience, allowing for a more visually appealing and uninterrupted interaction with your device. Hiding the Dock with Wallpaper Customization The dock provides quick access to frequently used apps, but its appearance may sometimes clash with your home screen's aesthetic. iOS 18 allows you to hide the dock using specially designed wallpapers that seamlessly blend with the background. Follow these steps to achieve this effect: Choose Compatible Wallpapers Select wallpapers with a bottom section that matches the dock's dimensions and color. Ensure the wallpapers include both light and dark versions to align with your system's theme for a consistent appearance. Select wallpapers with a bottom section that matches the dock's dimensions and color. Ensure the wallpapers include both light and dark versions to align with your system's theme for a consistent appearance. Apply the Wallpaper Set the selected wallpaper as your home screen background. The bottom portion of the wallpaper should match the dock's color or pattern, creating the illusion of a hidden dock. Set the selected wallpaper as your home screen background. The bottom portion of the wallpaper should match the dock's color or pattern, creating the illusion of a hidden dock. Disable the Blur Effect To enhance the effect, disable the blur option in your system settings. This adjustment ensures the dock blends seamlessly with the wallpaper, resulting in a minimalist and cohesive design. By following these steps, you can effectively conceal the dock, achieving a cleaner and more polished home screen layout. Automating Wallpaper Changes For added convenience, you can automate wallpaper changes based on the time of day or your preferences. Using the Shortcuts app, set up an automation to switch between light and dark wallpapers at specific times. This feature ensures your home screen remains visually consistent and adapts to your system theme throughout the day. Looking Ahead: Potential Changes in iOS 19 While iOS 18 offers robust customization options, future updates may bring changes that impact these features. Speculation suggests that iOS 19 could introduce a redesigned dock, potentially limiting the ability to hide it using wallpaper tricks. Staying informed about upcoming updates will help you adapt your customization strategies and maintain a personalized setup that reflects your preferences. Unlock more potential in iOS 18 customization by reading previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
