Mobile Archives

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Reader poll says 1 thing matters most in free apps — and it’s not open source

A recent poll among users of free Android applications revealed their preferences regarding app features. The absence of advertisements was the top priority for 33.6% of respondents, indicating a strong aversion to intrusive ads. Additionally, 12.4% valued the absence of paywalls, suggesting they prioritize accessibility over ads. Only 5.7% considered the open-source nature of apps significant. Notably, 48.2% of participants believed that all three features—absence of ads, no paywalls, and open-source access—are equally important.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Google Maps is finally getting a speedometer on Android Auto, and it’s about time — my ancient GPS system could do this 20 years ago

Google is rolling out live speedometer support for Google Maps on Android Auto. Some users have already reported seeing the speedometer feature in regions like Canada and India. A Canadian user confirmed its presence while using version 26.29.02.946673643 of the Google Maps beta.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Android Auto is finally getting the Google Maps feature drivers have wanted

Google Maps is introducing a live speedometer feature to Android Auto, which has been a long-awaited addition for users. This feature is currently available to a limited number of beta users on version 26.29.02.946673643. The speedometer will be displayed next to the speed limit indicator and will change color if the driver exceeds the posted limit. The rollout is server-side, meaning updating the app does not guarantee access to the feature. Google advises that the speedometer should be used as a reference tool rather than a replacement for the vehicle's built-in speedometer.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Spotted the new Android Developer Verifier app? Read this before you uninstall it

The "Android Developer Verifier" is a system service from Google that verifies whether an app being sideloaded is associated with a verified developer account. This app is part of Google's strategy to implement sideloading restrictions to protect users from social engineering scams. A verified developer account has undergone legal identity and background checks to ensure apps can be traced back to legitimate individuals or businesses. The app is automatically installed on certain devices, such as the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Galaxy S26 Ultra, through Google System Updates, and users cannot opt out of it. Currently, the app is inactive for most users, with registration requirements beginning in select regions on September 30. Uninstalling the app may not prevent its reinstallation. The updated sideloading process requires users to enable Developer mode, confirm they are not being coerced, restart their device, wait 24 hours, and authenticate before installing an APK. Although this process may seem cumbersome, it aims to disrupt scammers' tactics. Users can still sideload via ADB, which is exempt from the new restrictions. Keeping the Android Developer Verifier on the device is advised until the sideloading restrictions are fully implemented.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

The Samsung Browser app on Wear OS now lets you download images and GIFs

Samsung has updated its Browser app on Wear OS, allowing users to download images and GIFs directly to their smartwatches. Users can long-press on images to prompt a "Download image" option, supporting formats like PNG, JPG, JPEG, and GIF, with a maximum file size of 10MB. Downloaded images are stored in a "Downloads" folder in the watch's internal memory and can be viewed as thumbnails on the app's home page. To access full images, a third-party file manager or gallery app is needed. Users can delete individual images or select multiple images for bulk deletion through a long-press action.

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

Stop tap tap tapping on your Android keyboard and get the message through faster with this ancient but underrated feature

The demand for faster typing on smartphones has increased, particularly for professionals, students, and interns. Swipe typing, also known as Glide Typing on Gboard, allows users to glide their finger across the keyboard without lifting it for each letter, significantly enhancing typing speed. To use this method on a Google Pixel 8 with Android 16 and Gboard, users should tap on a text box, slide their finger across the keyboard, and lift it only when finishing a word. For Samsung Keyboard users, Swype mode must be enabled in the settings. Gboard's swipe typing feature becomes more intelligent with use, providing word suggestions and allowing users to teach it new words. This feature is effective in multiple languages, including Urdu, and can also be used on Wear OS smartwatches. Although there may be an initial learning curve, swipe typing can greatly improve typing efficiency and is often met with curiosity from others.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

Google Pixel May Finally Be Adding A Feature Every Other Android Phone Has

Recent developments indicate that an app lock feature for Google Pixel phones is in the works, allowing users to lock individual apps independently and potentially use biometric verification instead of traditional PINs and passwords. Currently, Pixel devices offer a feature called Private Space, accessible through settings, which creates a secure interface for apps but requires a separate password and does not allow notifications from locked apps. Users can enhance app security using in-app encryption options available in various applications or by utilizing third-party app lock solutions from the Play Store. Additionally, the Files by Google app provides a Safe Folder feature that allows users to secure specific data with a password.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

5 Motorola software features I wish were on every Android phone

Motorola's software, particularly the Hello UI, has been criticized for inadequate update practices but is recognized for its rich feature set that enhances user experience. Key features include: - Quick Gestures: Intuitive gesture controls allow users to launch the camera with a wrist twist and activate the flashlight with a double karate chop. - Desk Display: A feature for foldable devices that displays a clock or calendar alongside notifications without waking the phone. - Manual Material You: Customization options that allow users to personalize their device's appearance based on wallpaper colors, including a color wheel and pipette tool. - Media Controls: Users can control media playback without unlocking the phone by holding down the volume buttons. - Smart Connect: An app that enhances connectivity, allowing the phone to be used as a wireless webcam or secondary monitor, with voice command integration for screen sharing and app launching.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

As Google sits back and watches, terrible ads are ruining Android’s free app ecosystem

The mobile advertising landscape has shifted from simple banner ads to aggressive monetization tactics that often manipulate users. Common intrusive ad experiences include unclosable interstitial ads, interactive playable ads that mislead users, and unsolicited notifications promoting unrelated games. This shift has negatively impacted independent developers, who struggle to compete against large ad networks and feel pressured to adopt disruptive ad practices. Google, which controls the Play Store and ad services, benefits financially from these intrusive ads but has not effectively addressed the issue, allowing low-quality ads to proliferate. The current state of advertising is eroding user trust in free applications, threatening the integrity of the Android ecosystem.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

Friday’s Android app deals and freebies: Final Fantasy VII, Serial Cleaner, Parabellum, more

A new wave of Android game and app deals includes titles such as Foretales, Looking for Aliens, Serial Cleaner, Parabellum: Siege of Legends, FrogBoy, Zombie Night Terror, and Final Fantasy VII. Discounts are also available on tech accessories, including the Google Pixel Flex Dual Port 67W USB-C Fast Charger, and flagship devices like the Google Pixel 10 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516 is priced at 9. Additional app price drops are ongoing, with more deals expected throughout the weekend.