Apps
Snapchat Gets Next Gen Scan Features
Two years ago, Snapchat introduced Scan to help Snapchatters discover and understand the world around them in the fastest and easiest way possible with its Camera. The company has begun the rollout of the Next Generation Scan features to Snapchat, bringing the Scan button front and center, and adding increased functionality allowing Snapchatters to find fun and helpful experiences in categories including fashion, food, plants, and more. Next-Generation Scan has begun rolling out globally to iOS users. Availability on Android will follow over the next few weeks.
From finding a fun Lens that perfectly expresses your mood, to helping you navigate grocery store aisles, or even your own pantry, Scan and our Camera is a starting point to help Snapchatters express themselves and learn about the world. The scan will now also offer suggestions for different ways to use our Camera, including Camera Shortcuts and unique shopping capabilities. Camera Shortcuts suggest camera modes, Lenses, and soundtracks relevant to what is seen through the Snapchat Camera. Camera Shortcuts has begun rolling out to iOS users globally and will be available to Android users globally by the end of this year.
Shopping with the Snap Camera is behaviour the company is also leaning into with Scan because the company sees it as a trend that’s here to stay. Snap is providing a seamless shopping experience directly from the camera, whether that’s in the moment when you see an outfit you love, or later because you’ve screenshotted it for inspiration.
People love to take screenshots of things they see online and come back to it later, and with Scan, Snap is making that easier than ever. Just tap into your screenshots and use Scan technology to find and buy those outfits with shopping capabilities through Memories. Shopping through Memories is available to 15% of Snapchatters on iOS and is planned to be rolled out to more users in the coming weeks.
Apps
Meta Expands Integration of WhatsApp with Accounts Center
Since its launch in 2020, Accounts Center has allowed users to manage their connected experiences across Facebook, Instagram, and Meta Quest with ease. In a significant expansion, Meta announced the rollout of a new option to add WhatsApp to the Accounts Center over the coming months.
The integration prioritizes user choice and privacy. WhatsApp accounts will remain separate from other apps, and only users can decide to link them. This integration is optional and off by default. However, those who opt in can enjoy added convenience. For instance, sharing updates from WhatsApp Status to Facebook or Instagram Stories will become seamless, eliminating the need for multiple posts. Additionally, a single sign-on feature will enable quick and easy access to WhatsApp accounts.
Meta plans to introduce more cross-app features over time. Future updates will allow users to manage their avatars, Meta AI stickers, and Imagine Me creations all in one place. The company commits to providing clear explanations for these updates within their apps to help users make informed decisions.
Privacy remains a priority, with personal messages and calls on WhatsApp continuing to be protected by end-to-end encryption. This ensures that no one, not even WhatsApp or Meta, can access this content. Integrating WhatsApp into Accounts Center does not change this standard.
The global rollout will take time. Users will see the new option in their WhatsApp settings or when prompted while performing cross-app actions, such as resharing their Status. Meta aims to enhance user experience by making digital interactions smoother and more intuitive.
Apps
Lamborghini Rolls Out Smart TV App
Lamborghini has launched Lamborghini TV, a smart TV app that offers fans and customers an immersive experience in the world of this iconic automaker.
The app delivers exclusive content, including in-depth model analysis, technical insights, motorsport highlights, event coverage, lifestyle features, interviews, and podcasts.
Available on Android TV (8.0 Oreo and above), Samsung Tizen (2018+ devices), and LG WebOS (2018+ devices), Lamborghini TV can be downloaded directly from smart TV app stores. With high-resolution visuals and curated programming, the app allows enthusiasts to explore behind-the-scenes stories.
From comprehensive looks into Lamborghini’s latest supercars to exclusive podcasts offering expert insights, Lamborghini TV is designed to provide a captivating experience tailored to every fan. The app is available for download now on compatible devices.
Apps
Elon Musk Teases Launch of ‘Xmail’ to Rival Gmail
Elon Musk has sparked speculation about the potential launch of ‘Xmail,’ an email service that could rival Google’s Gmail. The excitement began when the X account DodgeDesigner suggested that an X-based email service would be “cool.” Musk responded, stating, “Yeah. On the list of things to do,” confirming that the concept is being considered.
Interesting.
We need to rethink how messaging, including email, works overall. https://t.co/6wZAslJLTc
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 15, 2024
This announcement is in line with Musk’s usual method of revealing updates through casual interactions on X. Although no official timeline or details about ‘Xmail’ have been shared yet, the news has generated significant buzz on social media, especially among Musk’s followers.
As of September 2024, Apple Mail dominates the global email market with a 53.67% share, while Gmail holds 30.70%, according to recent data. Outlook, Yahoo! Mail, and Google Android combined account for less than 10% of the market. If Musk introduces ‘Xmail,’ it could potentially disrupt the current market dynamics, leveraging his influence as the world’s richest man and US President-elect’s ‘First Buddy.’
Supporters are already rallying behind the idea. One user expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “I’d drop Gmail so damn fast,” reflecting frustration with Google’s dominance.
The potential launch of ‘Xmail’ underscores Musk’s ambition to expand X’s ecosystem and challenge established tech giants. Whether ‘Xmail’ will succeed remains to be seen, but the anticipation and excitement are already high.
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