Microsoft releases Xbox Cloud Gaming update on iOS to reduce input lag

Source: Microsoft

Microsoft has brought its Xbox Cloud Gaming service to iOS back in June. But since it can only offer the service through Safari instead of a dedicated app, the experience isn't up to par with those on other platforms. And that's why Microsoft introduced a series of enhancements to improve overall performance for the iPhone and iPad. It optimized video output and network data transmission on iOS devices and found a way to reduce overall input lag. The latter will particularly be noticeable. 

It seems to be the best workaround Microsoft can offer right now, short of releasing a dedicated app. The company is restricted by Apple's policies on game streaming apps, so it had to bring the service through the web browser.

Source

Google One VPN comes to iOS

Source: Google

If you're an iOS user that has a Google One Premium subscription, you now have access to the VPN service. Google brings the feature to subscribers who pay for 2TB or more of Google One storage in 18 countries, including Canada. As The Verge noted, the feature is similar to Apple's Private Relay service for all its paid iCloud plans. The VPN service works to keep your IP and internet traffic private, but it won't let you get an IP address in another country, which potentially unlocks different shows on streaming services.

Google's VPN service for Android users also gets new features like "safe disconnect," allowing you to shut off internet access if you're disconnected from the VPN to ensure your data is secure. It will also allow you to set certain apps to bypass the VPN on Android devices.

iOS 15.4's 'Use Face ID with a Mask' feature only works on iPhone 12 and newer devices

The recently launched iOS 15.4 update comes with a rather useful feature. It lets you unlock the phone with its Face ID when wearing a mask. According to Apple, it scans the "unique features around the eye area." But it looks like the feature requires more resources, as the company seems to be limiting its availability to newer iPhone and iPad models.

Click to read more ...

Twitch brings recurring subscriptions to iOS

Caspar Camille Rubin/Unsplash

Twitch has given iOS users a way to support their favourite streamers via a Sub Tokens feature. It works similar to the desktop feature with ad-free viewing and sub-only chat. But it's a one-time purchase you can redeem anytime you want. Now, Twitch iOS app users can purchase a recurring subscription, so you don't lose access to the subscriber-only features. Twitch made the change because of user feedback.

"We learned from the community that non-renewing Sub Tokens on iOS can prevent them from consistently enjoying subscriber benefits and supporting their favourite creators," the company said in a blog post.

Sub Tokens are being phased out slowly. Twitch will sell them until December 1, and you can redeem these until January 10, 2022. But after that, any Sub Tokens you have will be refunded by Apple. 

Via: Engadget