New Release - Version 2.8.0 - 277

We are excited to finally release version 2.8.0 build 277 to you all! While it has been a some time between releases, we are hopeful that it was worth the wait! While there are no new features, per se, to report, there were plenty issues addressed. We addressed some usability issues that were plaguing our international users. Those using Bluetooth, we have something for you too. Finally, for those using Android KitKat (or higher) on their devices, we have something new and something old (but fixed) for you.

Those that use the SMS features of our app, you will be happy to know that initial MMS support has been added. We always alerted you to new MMS messages, but we couldn't read out the actual message. For most of you, this should now work. For those that use our Voice Reply or Voice Prompt features and often listen to music or other media, we addressed an issue with music not restarting upon completion of the reply or prompt. Unfortunately, this fix is for Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) and higher at the moment.

The feature that consumed most of our time was fixing "Car Compatibility" mode on Android KitKat and higher. This feature allows you to stream our apps notifications through in-car bluetooth. Obviously, this is hugely positive for those wishing to focus on their driving and obey hands-free laws. The cause of the problem, for those that care, can be seen in the Android documentation. Look for the paragraph that starts with NOTE:. Basically, someone decided to change the behaviour of something we had relied upon ...

As always, the changelog can be found in our Changes page. The changes in this release are as follows:

  • Updated the "Language Choices" to cover all the languages the app supports and show options in users native language.
  • Updated the SMS notifications to improve MMS support.
  • Some minor bug fixes (for issues reported by the automatic crash reporter).
  • Added guard clauses for android 2.1 users to prevent them from using Gtalk Compatibility mode since their devices don't support it.
  • Updated the internal third-party Gtalk libraries.
  • Moved the directory containing preferences, logs, etc to Android directory from the Download directory.
  • On devices using Android KitKat or higher, we have fixed an issue where media is not restarted after performing voice reply. At this time, other versions of Android aren't as lucky.
  • Added a brief delay for bluetooth headset connection before message playback so that messages are not cutoff when they are announced.
  • Updated how the default TTS engine language was chosen on Android 4.3 +.
  • Improved the method for detecting a network connection.
  • Updated "Car Compatibility Mode" for those on Android KitKat that hopefully brings back the functionality for all!

If you are satisfied with our apps, we would greatly appreciate a 5 star review on the Play store and a little comment from you on what you like about the app. If you are not 100% satisfied, please contact us and tell us why. We do strive for your 100% satisfaction and will try to correct any issues you encounter.