Android software updates and smartphone news

LineageOS has released version 24, which brings Android 17 to older hardware. A significant update in this release is the introduction of an official web-based flashing tool. This tool utilizes the WebUSB interface via Chromium browsers to automate the firmware installation process, aiming to simplify the experience for users by removing the need for complex terminal commands or specific drivers.

Separately, a Google Play system update has caused confusion among Android users, particularly those using Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 8.5 and One UI 9. The update is incorrectly displaying a date of January 1, 2027. While reports from Samsung forums and Reddit indicate the bug also affects some Motorola, Nothing, and OnePlus devices, neither Google nor Samsung has issued an official statement regarding the display error.

In consumer technology, budget smartphone testing by IMTEST identified the Poco F6 as the top performer in its category, while the CMF Phone 1 was noted for its price-to-performance ratio. Additionally, LEGO addressed a rare production error from 2017 after a customer discovered a Millennium Falcon set was missing approximately 2,000 parts; the company provided the missing pieces free of charge.