Google’s Android operating system is used on over 70% of the world’s mobile phones. A major redesign of the operating system is in the works. This version will include a built in TV remote app. Google will release this remote control feature for devices running Android 11 and up. The debut will be later this year.
The top of the interface is a blank space that’s used as a gesture pad, where you can swipe and tap your way around Android TV. Move between apps, select a show or go back to the home screen with the onscreen controls. It looks like buttons to control volume and power are also included in the app.
A well needed feature is it’s ability to use your phone’s keyboard to type usernames and passwords, or search for shows.
Tip of the month
iOS 14.5 How to stop apps from tracking you
If you’ve spent any time shopping online, you’re probably familiar with the creepy feeling that arises when you click on a pair of shoes, and find that an ad for that very pair follows you on every site and app you visit for the next week. A new feature on your iPhone iOS 14.5 gives you the option to turn off ad tracking with the apps you use.
When you download and open a new app, you’ll get a notification that asks if you want to let the app track your activity across other companies’ apps and websites. You’ll also see information about what the app would track. You can tap either Ask App not to Track or Allow.
You can also opt out of app tracking across every app you download by going to Settings > Privacy > Tracking, and toggling off Allow Apps to Request to Track. This means any app that tries to ask for your permission will be blocked from asking, and automatically informed that you have requested not to be tracked.
Please be aware that ads will disappear. It means that you will see more generic ads, not just for the item you were searching for or clicked on.
