5 Best Open Source Mobile Test Automation Tools

Short Bytes: There is a wide range of devices and platforms one needs to account for when developing a mobile app. An automation app for Mobile Testing can save development and testing time. Here are 5 top open source automated mobile testing frameworks to use, including the likes of Appium, Robotium, and Selendroid.

Testing a software application can be quite cumbersome. Software companies have separate teams allotted just for testing and analyzing their applications. To ease this process, they often design and develop their own effective testing strategies.

The process gets further complicated when the application is cross-platform rather than a single platform (native). For example, a cross-platform mobile app accounts for usage across multiple devices and operating systems. Additionally, mobile hardware and their operating systems are constantly upgraded. Therefore, it is natural to have a generic automated tool for testing software applications. Focussing on mobile applications, the first step in automating your testing is to choose the right framework.

Here are 5 top open source mobile testing frameworks to use:

1. Appium (Android, iOS)

• Supports Android versions from 2.3 and above
• Utilizes UI Automator and WebDriver libraries
• Supports Java, C#, Ruby and those available in the WebDriver library
• Cross Browser support (Safari and Chrome)
• Compatible with JSON wire protocol
• Cross-platform capabilities to run tests across multiple devices

2. Robotium (Android)

• Supports Android 1.6 version and above
• Easy to write powerful test scenarios
• Supports Java
• Handles multiple Android routines automatically
• No Record and Play function and no screenshots

3. Selendroid (Android)

• Uses Selenium 2 client API
• Fully compatible with JSON wire protocol
• No alteration of app under test is needed to automate it
• Can interact with multiple Android devices at the same time

4. Keep It Functional (iOS)

• Supports Objective-C and Swift languages
• Strong and active open source community
• Tests are easy to write, in the same language as the code
• Little or no external dependencies

5. Monkey Talk (Android, iOS)

• Supports a broad range of basic to advanced tests
• A Powerful cross-platform tool enabling high productivity
• Records and plays test scripts for cross-platform apps
• Widely used for native Android, iOS, HTML5, and Adobe Flex apps

These are the top open source tools for mobile test automation. They have a large open source community that is involved in guiding users and contributing to the project. Try any of the above frameworks for a faster mobile app development.

So, which mobile testing app do you use? Do you have something to add? Comment and share with us.
This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/5-open-source-mobile-test-automation-tools/

After Killing iPhone’s 3.5mm Jack, Apple Plans To Remove USB Ports From Upcoming MacBooks

Short Bytes: Following the recent rumors, it’s expected that the new MacBook Pro laptops will do away with the traditional USB and the MagSafe charging ports in favor of the USB Type-C port. The Thunderbolt port will also be upgraded to Thunderbolt 3.

 

The fall is about to arrive and the rumor mill has started churning news about Apple MacBook lineup. It’s almost a year and a half since Apple released the MacBook Pro with Retina display in May 2015. Reports from Macotakara, claimed trusted Chinese sources, suggest that there is a new MacBook Pro in the works.

The new MacBook Pro is expected to launch on October 27 but the official release announcements haven’t been made. It is rumored to come with the USB-C port which originally debuted in the Apple ecosystem with the 12-inch MacBook. This will also mark the exit of the normal USB ports and the MegSafe charging port from the MacBook Pro. The USB Type-C on the MacBook Pro is accompanied by Thunderbolt 3.0 port. It’s, however, not known how many USB Type-C ports will be there.

Other than the changes in the ports, there might be an OLED touch bar above the keyboard replacing the physical function keys and allowing the buttons to be customized. The Touch ID support is also expected to be introduced. The rumors don’t include reports about4G LTE feature patented by Apple for the laptops.

It’s good to see that Apple is not ditching the analog audio jack in their MacBook lineup. And Macbook owners will have the opportunity to play with the dinos for some time.

That was for the Pros. In the case of the MacBook Air, 11-inch variant may go out of production so that more attention could be paid to the 13-inch MacBook Air. A Type-C USB port is also rumored to land on the MacBook Air.

Macotakara via 9to5Mac

If you have something to add, tell us in the comments below.

This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/macbook-pro-release-date-and-new-features/

7 Best Features Of Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak

Short Bytes: The latest offering from Canonical is the Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak open source operating system. It comes with the developer preview of the Unity 8 graphical shell and improvement to the Nautilus file browser. Ubuntu 16.10 has been updated with GNOME 3.20 applications and offers Linux kernel 4.8.

 

Canonical Inc. has released the next major update after Ubuntu 16.04 Xenial Xerus in the name of Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak. The ISO and torrent files for various Ubuntu 16.10 flavors are available for download and you can install it using the following guide: How To Install Ubuntu 16.10

Let’s have a look at the best features of Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak:

1. Linux Kernel 4.8

 

Ubuntu 16.10 ships with Linux Kernel 4.8 out of the box. It brings a number of security features along with major changes to the XFS and Btrfs file systems. It supports Nvidia Pascal and AMD OverDrive for overclocking GPUs using Linux drivers.

The new Linux kernel has given me a sense of satisfaction for my new laptop. I dual-booted it with Mint 17 but the wireless failed to work due to older kernel version which lacked support for 7th gen Intel processors.

2. Nautilus 3.20

The inbuilt file browser in Ubuntu Linux distribution has been updated to version 3.20 in Yakkety Yak. Various bug fixes have been made, for instance, Nautilus was crashing when jp2 images were used as thumbnails in a directory.

The changes to the user interface include a new file shortcuts window which can be found in the files drop down menu. The search has been redesigned with a popover interface where you can find drop-down menu choosing the date and file type as the advanced search options.

3. Extra job for Systemd

The primary task of the Systemd in Linux distros is process management. With the release of Yakkety Yak, an extra job has been given to Systemd. It also does the work of starting the graphical desktop sessions in the latest Ubuntu release. This marks a retirement for the Upstart which is used to handle this task. However, Upstart will still be the driving force behind Unity, hud, and indicators. They are in the process of being converted.

4. Changes to GPG

The GnuPG (GPG) is a software for encryption and managing cryptographic keys. Ubuntu now uses the gnupg2 for the gpg binary. The GPG, developed by the GNU Project, is an implementation of the OpenPGP standard.

5. GNOME 3.20

The GNOME Core Applications in the Ubuntu 16.10 have been updated to version 3.20. Many applications come with version 3.22 and rest of them will be updated soon as the latest release of the GNOME applications collection 3.22.1 has arrived a couple of days ago.

6. Unity 8 Developer Preview

The Ubuntu 16.10 comes with a limited option developer preview of the Unity 8 graphical shell. On the login screen, you can choose between the Unity 8 or the normal one. The Unity 8 comes system settings, command line, web browser, and some applications.

The new graphical shell is in development since the last three years and resembles fundamentals with the Unity Touch present on smartphones and tablets. But the interface is different.

It borrows the Launcher and Scopes from the Ubuntu touch. The developer preview offers and insight to how the Scopes work in the Unity 8 with a revamped command line. There are Snappy Apps which make the update process easier for the developers. Unity 8 also enhances the experience by saying goodbye to the laggy desktop effects which have haunted the Ubuntu users.

7. Updated Apps

• LibreOffice 5.2.2
• Mozilla Firefox 49
• Shotwell 0.22
• GNOME Terminal 3.20
• Thunderbird 45
• Ubuntu Software 3.20
• Rhythmbox 3.4.1

The Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak is not an LTS release like the Ubuntu 16.04. It will receive a 9-month support until July 2017. You can download the latest Ubuntu 16.10 ISO file from here. Read more about Yakkety on its release notes page.

If you have something to add, let us know in the comments below.

This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/7-best-features-in-ubuntu-16-10-yakkety-yak/

Ubuntu 16.10 Released, Now Available For Download

Short Bytes: After spending six months in development, Ubuntu 16.10 operating system has arrived. Now you can download the latest version of this open source operating system and experience an improved desktop. This release arrives with Linux kernel 4.8, experimental Unity 8 session, and better hardware support.

 

Canonical, the parent company behind Ubuntu, hasreleased Ubuntu 16.10 operating system after six months of development. This release is codenamed Yakkety Yak and follows the 16.04 Xenial Xerus release.

It should be noted that Ubuntu 16.10 is not an update for conservative users. This second major milestone release of 2016 is a standard release that will be supported for nine months. However, if you are a Linux enthusiast and you wish to try some new features and software, upgrading to Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak is the right choice.

The Ubuntu 16.10 release features a number of small improvements in the operating system that aim to make the overall experience more polished and better. There are refinements in Unity desktop, Compiz window manager, Nautilus file manager. There’s the brand new Linux kernel 4.8, of course.

While we’ll be covering the detailed features of Ubuntu 16.10 in another article, the major highlights are updated applications, better hardware support due to a newer kernel, and Unity 8 Preview Session.

Download Ubuntu 16.10 ISO and torrent files

To accommodate some more language packs, the final ISO size has increased from 1.4GB to 1.5GB.

While you always have the option to upgrade your existing Ubuntu installation, you can download Ubuntu 16.10 ISO files for 32-bit and 64-bit architecture. Just in case you’re interested in grabbing the torrent links, they are also available for 32-bit and 64-bit machines.

Are you going to try out Ubuntu 16.10? Tell us your views in the comments section below.

This Blog was First published on: https://fossbytes.com/ubuntu-16-10-released-features-available-for-download/

8 Amazing Things Google Is Going To Launch At Its October 4 Event

Short Bytes: At its upcoming October 4 event under the tagline “Made by Google”, the company is expected to launch a wide range of new hardware. It’s being speculated that Google will show off its new Pixel smartphone, Pixel tablet, Google Home, a new OS named “Andromeda”, and a lot more.

Move over Apple, it’s Google’s turn to open its pandora box. On October 4, the tech giant is going to expand its hardware range by launching new smartphones, tablets, home automation devices etc. Google has even created a dedicated website for the event.

Google October 4 Event: What to expect

1. Pixel and Pixel XL phones

The company is calling the October 4 event “Made by Google”, suggesting that it’s going to launch lots of new hardware. It’s being speculated that Google is going to leave behind the Nexus brand and produce Pixel-branded smartphones.

The media reports suggest that Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones will be manufactured by HTC. Pixel, the smaller of the two phones, will feature a 5-inch display. Pixel XL will come with a 5.5-inch Quad HD AMOLED display. They are expected to run Android N and offer support for Google Daydream VR platform.

2. New Pixel tablet

According to the renowned phone leaker Evan Blass, Google is looking to release a Huawei-made tablet that’ll feature a 4GB RAM.

3. Daydream VR

Virtual reality is one of the fastest growing technologies at the moment. Google plans to go beyond Google Cardboard and leave a mark with its new Daydream VR platform. It’s expected that Google will showcase Daydream VR running on its new hardware. Google has also confirmed that it’s working on its own headset and controller.

4. 4K Chromecast

It’s expected that Google will refresh Chromecast in the form of Chromecast Ultra or Chromecast Plus. Introduced at ~$70, it’ll support HDR and 4K. It’s also expected to arrive with updated design, refreshed app, and improved internals.

5. Google Home

Google aims to compete with Amazon Echo by launching Google Home. It’s like Google Now for your home. It’ll activate with “OK Google” prompt and let you interact with different home automation systems.

6. Google Wi-Fi

Google is also expected to release a new Wi-Fi device named Google Wi-Fi. The reports suggest that it’ll let you mesh multiple networks and enjoy a better internet connection. It’ll be similar to previously released OnHub router. Google Wi-Fi is expected to feature dual band and 2 ports, AC1200 speeds, Bluetooth, and 802.15.4 radios.

7. Andromeda OS

Last year, we came to know that Google is willing to kill Chrome OS and merge its best features into Android. This will be followed by a unified operating system by 2017.

Now, the October 4 event is expected to mark the official debut of this merger in the form of a new OS named Andromeda. We expect it to follow the open source philosophy.

8. Pixel 3 Laptop

The launch of Andromeda OS is expected to accompany a new laptop in the form of a new Pixel 3 laptop codenamed “Bison”. The company expects to develop an actual rival to Windows and Mac.

Pixel 3 laptop will come in an ultrabook form factor, featuring Intel processors, 32GB/128GB storage, 8GB/16GB RAM, and a battery life of 10 hours. It’s also possible that Google might skip the Pixel 3 launch and unveil it next year.

Did you find this article interesting? Don’t forget to drop your feedback in the comments section below.

This Blog was First published on:- https://fossbytes.com/8-amazing-new-things-google-is-going-to-launch-at-its-october-4-event/