Your Tech Story

Android

How to Configure a VPN on Your Android

How to Configure a VPN on Your Android

Leave a Comment / how to, Tech Tips, Tech tips / By
How to Configure a VPN on Your Android

Image Source: clario.com

Setting up a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on your Android device can help shield your online activity from prying eyes in the modern digital world when security and privacy are crucial. Here’s a thorough tutorial on setting up a VPN on your Android device, regardless of your reasons for wanting to protect your privacy, access content that is blocked, or secure your connection when using public Wi-Fi.

Selecting a Trustworthy VPN

Choosing a reputable VPN service is essential before beginning the setup procedure. Even while there are many free VPNs out online, they frequently have restrictions and privacy issues. Here are a few well-liked VPN suggestions for Android:

  • NordVPN: Well-known for its extensive server network, quick connections, and strong security features.

  • ExpressVPN: Strong encryption, good speed, and easy-to-use applications are all features of ExpressVPN.

  • Surfshark: An inexpensive VPN with a tonne of features and limitless simultaneous connections.

How to Configure an Android VPN

On an Android smartphone, setting up a VPN is simple and may be done in a few different ways, depending on your preferences.

Installing a VPN App

  • Set up a VPN application: Get a VPN app from the Google Play Store, such as Surfshark, NordVPN, or ExpressVPN.

  • To log in, open the VPN app and enter your login details.

  • Choose a Server: Select a server location via the VPN application.

  • Link: To create a secure VPN connection, tap the “Connect” button.

Manual Setup (Integrated VPN)

  • Get to the Android Settings: Your Android device’s Settings app should open.

  • Go to the Network & Internet page: Select “Network & Internet” from the menu. 

  • Choose a VPN: Select “VPN” from the network settings menu.

  • Create a VPN Profile: To create a new VPN profile, tap the “+” symbol.

  • Enter your VPN information here: Enter the necessary VPN server information that your VPN provider has sent you.

  • Save Profile: Conserve the VPN profile configuration.

Configuring an OpenVPN

  • Get OpenVPN Connect by downloading it: OpenVPN Connect may be installed via the Google Play Store.

  • Configuration for Import: OpenVPN Connect should import the VPN configuration file that your VPN provider sent you.

  • Connect to Server: To create a VPN connection, click “Connect” in the OpenVPN Connect app.

Setting a VPN connection on an Android device

Connecting to a VPN on your Android smartphone is simple after it has been configured:

  • Get VPN Settings Access: Go into the settings on your Android smartphone.

  • Open the VPN: Navigate to “Network & Internet” > “VPN.”

  • Include a VPN profile: Input your VPN credentials by tapping “Add VPN Profile”.

  • Save Preferences: To save the VPN profile, click “Save”.

  • You can establish a direct connection to the VPN profile from the VPN settings menu if it has already been configured.

Removing Yourself from an Android VPN

To unplug your Android smartphone from a VPN:

  • Get VPN Settings Access: Navigate to “VPN” under “Network & Internet” in your device settings.

  • To disable a VPN, either flip the switch to “Off” or choose “Disconnect” from the menu next to the VPN profile.

  • Modifying the VPN Settings on an Android Device

You May Personalise the VPN Experience to your Tastes by Adjusting the VPN Settings on your Android Device:

  • Always On VPN: To maintain an active VPN connection at all times, enable “Always On”.

  • Clear alerts: While the VPN is operational, turn off the persistent alerts.

  • Establish a work profile to provide safe access to private networks.

Also Read: A Quick Guide to Cancelling Your Spotify Premium Subscription

Why a VPN Is Necessary for Android

On your Android smartphone, using a VPN has the following advantages:

  • Enhanced Privacy: Hides your IP address and online activity by encrypting your internet traffic.

  • Secure Public Wi-Fi: Prevents possible hackers from accessing your data on public Wi-Fi networks.

  • Access to Restricted Content: Get around geo-restrictions and internet censorship to access content from around the world.

  • VoIP Call Security: Provides safe Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) connections.

  • Streaming and torrenting: Provides access to geo-blocked streaming material and secure torrenting.

To sum up, installing a VPN on your Android phone is a simple procedure that improves your internet security, accessibility, and privacy. You may use your Android device to browse the internet more safely and securely by selecting a reliable VPN service and adhering to these setup guidelines.

 
Google to Launch AI Photo Eraser for iPhone and Android in May

Google to Launch AI Photo Eraser for iPhone and Android in May

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Google, News, Tech News / By

Google has announced a groundbreaking move in the realm of smartphone photography. In a blog post on Wednesday, the tech giant revealed its plans to democratize access to its AI-powered photo-editing tools, previously exclusive to Pixel phones and Google One subscribers. Starting May 15, users across all platforms—iOS and Android—will enjoy these advanced features, marking a significant shift in the accessibility of cutting-edge technology.

Revolutionizing Photo Editing

Google to Launch AI Photo Eraser for iPhone and Android in May

Image Source: patentlyapple.com

One of the standout features is the Magic Eraser, designed to seamlessly eliminate unwanted objects from images. This innovative tool joins the roster alongside Photo Unblur, which enhances focus in blurry photos, and Portrait Light, a tool for refining lighting in portraits. This expansion also encompasses Pixel tablets, widening the scope of AI-enhanced photo editing to a broader user base.

Inclusive Accessibility

Google’s move towards inclusivity extends beyond smartphones. While Pixel users and premium Google One subscribers will have unlimited access to these features, all Android and iOS users will receive 10 Magic Editor photo saves per month. This democratization of AI photo editing signifies a shift towards empowering every smartphone user with professional-grade editing capabilities.

The Magic Editor, initially introduced with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, stands out for its generative AI capabilities. It can seamlessly reposition subjects, remove unwanted elements, or even alter the sky’s hue, creating stunning visuals with ease. This democratization of advanced photo editing heralds a new era where creativity knows no bounds, empowering users to unleash their artistic vision directly from their smartphones.

Also Read: Blizzard Entertainment Games to Relaunch in China with NetEase

As Google prepares for the rollout next month, excitement brews among smartphone photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. With the democratization of AI photo editing, the possibilities for creativity and expression are limitless. The May launch marks not just a software update but a transformative leap towards making cutting-edge technology an integral part of everyday photography.

In conclusion, Google’s announcement of the AI photo eraser’s launch for iPhone and Android phones in May promises to redefine the landscape of smartphone photography and democratize access to professional-grade editing tools, ushering in a new era of creative expression for millions of users worldwide.

How to Set ChatGPT as Your Android's Voice Assistant

How to Set ChatGPT as Your Android’s Voice Assistant

Leave a Comment / how to, Tech Tips, Tech tips / By

In the era of virtual assistants, having the flexibility to choose your preferred option is crucial. While many default voice assistants come pre-installed on Android devices, you can now opt for ChatGPT as your primary voice assistant. With its advanced language capabilities and personalized interactions, ChatGPT offers a unique experience tailored to your needs. Follow these simple steps to set up ChatGPT as your default voice assistant on Android.

Before diving into the setup process, let’s briefly explore what ChatGPT offers. Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence model trained to generate human-like text based on the input it receives. It excels in understanding context, maintaining conversations, and providing relevant responses across various topics. By integrating ChatGPT as your default voice assistant, you can leverage its natural language processing abilities for tasks ranging from answering queries to scheduling reminders.

Enabling ChatGPT Accessibility

How to Set ChatGPT as Your Android's Voice Assistant

Image Source: gizchina.com

To begin, ensure that you have the ChatGPT app installed on your Android device. If you haven’t already done so, download it from the Google Play Store and complete the setup process. Once installed, navigate to your device’s settings and select the “Accessibility” option. Here, you’ll find a list of installed accessibility services. Locate ChatGPT and toggle the switch to enable it. This grants ChatGPT the necessary permissions to function as your default voice assistant.

Setting ChatGPT as Default

After enabling ChatGPT accessibility, return to the main settings menu and select “Apps & notifications.” From the list of installed apps, choose your current default voice assistant (e.g., Google Assistant). Within the app settings, look for the “Open by default” option and tap on it. Here, you’ll see a prompt asking if you want to clear the default settings for the selected app. Confirm this action to reset the default voice assistant.

Configuring ChatGPT Preferences

With the default settings cleared, trigger ChatGPT by pressing the designated voice assistant button or using the voice command, “Hey ChatGPT.” ChatGPT will prompt you to set it as your default voice assistant. Follow the on-screen instructions to grant ChatGPT the necessary permissions and customize its preferences according to your preferences. You can specify language preferences, personalize wake words, and configure other settings to enhance your ChatGPT experience.

Testing ChatGPT Integration

Once configured, it’s time to put ChatGPT to the test. Activate ChatGPT using the designated trigger phrase and interact with it as you would with any other voice assistant. Ask questions, request assistance with tasks, or engage in casual conversation to experience ChatGPT’s capabilities firsthand. As you continue to use ChatGPT, it will adapt to your preferences and provide more personalized responses over time.

Also Read: Jeff Bezos Sold 50 Million Shares of Amazon this Month for about $8 Billion

By setting ChatGPT as your default voice assistant on Android, you gain access to a powerful AI-driven companion capable of understanding and responding to your needs with human-like accuracy. Whether you’re seeking information, managing tasks, or simply engaging in conversation, ChatGPT offers a seamless and intuitive experience tailored to you. Follow the steps outlined above to integrate ChatGPT into your Android device and elevate your virtual assistant experience.

A Complete Guide to Google Gemini AI on Android and iPhone

A Complete Guide to Google Gemini AI on Android and iPhone

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Google, Tech Tips, Tech tips / By

Google’s Gemini app, an AI-powered chatbot, has recently undergone a significant expansion, making it accessible to users across 150 countries and territories, including India. With its innovative features and diverse language support, Gemini aims to revolutionize AI-driven conversations on both Android and iPhone platforms.

Global Accessibility: Breaking Boundaries

A Complete Guide to Google Gemini AI on Android and iPhone

The Gemini app, initially launched for Android users on February 8, has quickly captured attention for its groundbreaking capabilities. Its recent expansion to over 150 countries underscores Google’s commitment to democratizing AI-driven interactions on a global scale. By offering support in English, Korean, and Japanese languages, Gemini ensures inclusivity across diverse user demographics.

Embracing Diversity: Language Support and Accessibility

One of Gemini’s standout features is its multilingual support, catering to users from various linguistic backgrounds. Whether communicating in English, Korean, or Japanese, users can seamlessly engage with the chatbot, enhancing their digital experiences irrespective of language barriers.

Bridging the Gap: Gemini on iOS

While there isn’t a dedicated Gemini app for iOS, iPhone users can still leverage its capabilities through integration with the Google app. By simply toggling a feature within the Google app, iPhone users gain access to Gemini’s AI-driven conversations, expanding the reach of this innovative technology to a broader audience.

System Requirements: Ensuring Optimal Performance

To fully utilize the Gemini app on Android, users need devices with a minimum of 4GB RAM and running on Android 12 or later versions. Similarly, iPhone users must have iOS 16 or newer to activate the Gemini feature within the Google app. These system requirements ensure smooth functionality and optimal performance, guaranteeing a seamless user experience.

Also Read: OpenAI Introduces Sora: A Game-Changing AI Text-to-Video Model

User Experience: Addressing Concerns and Enhancements

Jack Krawczyk, Senior Director of Product at Google overseeing Gemini, has been responsive to user feedback and concerns. By relaxing restrictions on image uploading and generation, Google aims to enhance user experience while maintaining responsible content alignment. Moreover, efforts to improve communication regarding Gemini’s capabilities vis-à-vis Google Assistant demonstrate a commitment to transparency and user satisfaction.

As Gemini’s global rollout continues, users worldwide can look forward to integrating this AI-powered chatbot into their digital routines, unlocking a new era of intelligent interactions on both Android and iPhone devices. With its expanding reach and continuous improvements, Gemini is poised to redefine the way we engage with AI technology, enriching our daily lives with seamless, personalized experiences.

Google's Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

Google’s Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

Leave a Comment / Google, News, Tech News / By

Google’s recent announcement regarding privacy concerns for Android and iPhone users has sent ripples through the tech community. With the emergence of Gemini Apps, akin to a turbocharged Google Assistant, users are urged to exercise caution when sharing sensitive information.

Google’s Gemini App Privacy Hub blog sheds light on the potential security pitfalls associated with the use of artificial intelligence in smartphone applications. The blog emphasizes the need to refrain from divulging confidential information during conversations within Gemini apps.

The Persistence of Data

Google's Latest Warning to Android and iPhone Users Worldwide

One alarming revelation is that once conversations are reviewed, they linger in the system for an extended period, even after deletion of Gemini Apps activity. Google clarifies that these conversations are kept separate from users’ Google Accounts and may persist for up to three years.

Extended Data Retention

Conversations, inclusive of sensitive data, are retained for an extended period, posing a significant concern for user privacy. Despite deactivating Gemini Apps Activity, conversations remain associated with the user’s account for up to 72 hours, facilitating service provision and feedback processing.

Unintended Activations

Another cause for apprehension is the potential for unintended activations of Gemini, triggered by ambient sounds resembling its wake phrase. Google assures users that such activations are treated similarly to intentional ones, adhering to user settings.

Also Read: Elon Musk’s Bold Vision of Moving a Million People to Mars

Safeguarding Your Privacy

In light of these revelations, it becomes imperative for Android and iPhone users to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their privacy. Avoiding the disclosure of sensitive information and regularly reviewing privacy settings are crucial steps in mitigating potential risks associated with Gemini Apps.

Google’s cautionary advisory serves as a wakeup call for smartphone users to reassess their digital privacy practices. With the prevalence of AI-powered applications, vigilance and informed decision-making are paramount in protecting personal data from potential exploitation. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your privacy in the digital age.

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

Leave a Comment / Google, how to, Tech Tips, Tech tips / By

Google Assistant has become an integral part of the Android experience, offering users with a hands-free way to control their devices, search the Internet, and manage their daily tasks. Whether you’re new to Android or a longtime user, understanding how to effectively manage Google Assistant can increase the functionality of your device. This article guides you through the process of turning Google Assistant on and off, as well as some tips for getting the most out of it.

Understanding Google Assistant

How to Enable or Disable Google Assistant on Your Android Device

Image Source: lifewire.com

The Google Assistant is voice-activated software that provides a conversational interface to Google’s search and organizational tools. From setting reminders and sending texts to controlling smart home devices, its capabilities are vast and constantly growing.

Turning On Google Assistant

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

  • Ensure your Android device is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher and has Google Play Services installed.

Step 2: Update Your Device

  • Go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update to check for any available updates to ensure your device is running the latest version of its operating system.

Step 3: Open Google Assistant Settings

  • Long-press the Home button to activate Google Assistant or open the Google app, tap on “More” (three dots or lines) at the bottom right, go to “Settings,” and then select “Google Assistant.”

Step 4: Navigate to the ‘Assistant’ Tab

  • In the Google Assistant settings menu, tap on the “Assistant” tab to access various settings and preferences.

Step 5: Activate Google Assistant

  • Scroll down to “Assistant devices” and choose your device (e.g., Phone). Here, make sure the Google Assistant toggle is turned on.

Step 6: Set Up Voice Match (Optional)

  • For hands-free operation, you can set up Voice Match by finding this option in the “Assistant” tab. Follow the prompts to teach Google Assistant to recognize your voice.

Step 7: Test Google Assistant

  • Say “OK Google” or long-press the Home button to start using Google Assistant. Try asking a question or issuing a command to ensure it’s working correctly.

Turning Off Google Assistant

Step 1: Access Google Assistant Settings

  • Just like turning it on, access the Google Assistant settings by long-pressing the Home button or through the Google app.

Step 2: Go to the ‘Assistant’ Tab

  • Within the Google Assistant settings menu, select the “Assistant” tab to find the settings related to your devices.

Step 3: Find Your Device

  • Under “Assistant devices,” select your device (e.g., Phone) to access its specific settings.

Step 4: Disable Google Assistant

  • Toggle off the option for Google Assistant to disable it on your device. This will turn off Google Assistant’s ability to respond to voice commands or the Home button activation.

Also Read: Google Maps Introduces Cutting-Edge Generative AI Features

Conclusion

Google Assistant can significantly enhance your Android experience with its wide range of features. By following this guide, you can easily turn Google Assistant on or off depending on your preference. Experiment with its settings to customize its functionality to suit your needs.