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Google Outlines How AI Agents Will Interact with Android Apps
AppWizard
February 26, 2026

Google Outlines How AI Agents Will Interact with Android Apps

Google is enhancing Android apps to align with user expectations for artificial intelligence, similar to advancements in Windows 11. Developers received a preview of this initiative, which includes a new feature called AppFunctions. This feature allows Android apps to expose public interfaces for specific functionalities, enabling seamless interaction with AI agents and system-level services. AppFunctions are analogous to the Model Context Protocol (MCP) for cloud-based AI interconnectivity and will be accessible through Google's Jetpack library and platform APIs, ensuring local interactions on devices. AppFunctions are currently in early development, with initial examples implemented in the upcoming Gemini version for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series and other Samsung devices running OneUI 8.5 and higher. Users will interact with Calendar, Notes, and Tasks using AppFunctions to streamline activities. Google is launching an early preview of AppFunctions through a beta feature in the Gemini app, available on the Galaxy S26 series and select Pixel 10 devices, allowing users to delegate tasks to AI agents by double-pressing the power button. The initial rollout will focus on apps in food delivery, grocery, and rideshare sectors in the US and Korea. AppFunctions are expected to be integrated into Android 17, with a stable release anticipated around mid-year.
Windows 11 keeps adding new features — but two of them feel like classic “Microsoft, please stop” moments
Winsage
February 26, 2026

Windows 11 keeps adding new features — but two of them feel like classic “Microsoft, please stop” moments

Windows 11 is undergoing continuous enhancement, but not all new features are well-received by users. A Reddit user expressed frustration with a persistent gray window that appears when dragging files near the top of the screen, indicating it detracts from productivity. Another user echoed this concern about the Drag Tray, which obstructs access to tabs in File Explorer during file transfers. Users can disable the Snap Assist flyout and Drag Tray features through the Settings menu for a more streamlined experience. Overall, these features reflect a tendency for well-intentioned ideas to clutter the user experience rather than enhance it.
I tested Microsoft Edge’s AI tab organizer, and it’s shockingly good
Winsage
February 26, 2026

I tested Microsoft Edge’s AI tab organizer, and it’s shockingly good

Microsoft Edge has introduced an AI-powered feature called Organize Tabs, which automatically groups open tabs based on similarity, assigning each group a unique name and color. Users can access this feature through the Search Tabs menu and the Organize Tabs icon. The AI analyzes and categorizes tabs quickly, allowing for customization of group names and colors, sorting, and moving tabs between groups. The feature integrates with Edge's vertical tabs and Collections. Testing revealed that the AI effectively organized 40 tabs into eight distinct groups in under a second, enhancing productivity and reducing search time for users. Additional functionalities include adding new tabs to groups, modifying group names and colors, and transferring groups to new windows. However, there is a noted inconsistency in the "Close grouped tabs" and "Delete group" buttons, as both result in the deletion of the group.
Microsoft Copilot is the best productivity app on Windows, says Microsoft
Winsage
February 23, 2026

Microsoft Copilot is the best productivity app on Windows, says Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that its AI-driven tool, Copilot, is the top productivity application for Windows, according to its list titled "Best productivity apps in Windows for getting more done," which only includes Microsoft applications. Copilot is designed to streamline tasks from the desktop, offering features like summarizing emails, creating checklists, drafting messages, and organizing projects. Microsoft is promoting Copilot's integration across its product suite, but the ranking's exclusion of third-party applications has raised questions among users. An alternative list featuring a mix of Windows-based and third-party applications is available for those seeking a broader perspective on productivity tools.
Databricks Introduces Lakebase, a PostgreSQL Database for AI Workloads
Tech Optimizer
February 23, 2026

Databricks Introduces Lakebase, a PostgreSQL Database for AI Workloads

Databricks has launched Lakebase, a serverless database solution based on PostgreSQL that allows independent scaling of compute and storage resources. It integrates with the Databricks platform, combining transactional and analytical functionalities. Lakebase aims to simplify real-time application and AI workload development by consolidating database management, analytics, and governance. Key features include instant data branching, point-in-time recovery, and unified access controls. It is designed to address the limitations of traditional operational databases, which struggle with modern AI demands. Lakebase offers a managed PostgreSQL service, supporting up to 8TB per instance and featuring pgvector for AI-driven search. It has been in development since June 2025, utilizing technology from the PostgreSQL company Neon and enhanced by the acquisition of Mooncake. Lakebase is available in Autoscaling and Provisioned versions, with the Autoscaling version billed based on usage. It is currently available on AWS, in public preview on Azure, and expected on Google Cloud later this year. SOC2 and HIPAA certifications are projected for early 2026.
Researchers Discover First Android Malware Using Generative AI for Persistence
Tech Optimizer
February 22, 2026

Researchers Discover First Android Malware Using Generative AI for Persistence

Security researchers have identified a new Android Trojan named PromptSpy that uses generative AI technology to enhance its persistence on compromised devices. Discovered by ESET researchers, PromptSpy leverages Google's Gemini AI model to analyze infected device screens and generate tailored instructions for embedding itself within recent apps lists. It includes a Virtual Network Computing (VNC) module that allows attackers full remote control over the device, enabling activities such as viewing the screen, performing actions remotely, capturing lock screen data, blocking uninstallation attempts, gathering device information, taking screenshots, and recording screen activity as video. The malware communicates with command-and-control servers using AES encryption and exploits Android Accessibility Services, making it difficult to remove. PromptSpy is distributed through a dedicated website and is financially motivated, adapting to various Android interfaces and operating system versions. ESET's analysis indicates that the malware is regionally targeted, with a focus on Argentina, and may have been developed in a Chinese-speaking environment. The same threat actor is believed to be responsible for both VNCSpy and PromptSpy.
Windows 12 Forecast Six Expert Predictions
Winsage
February 22, 2026

Windows 12 Forecast Six Expert Predictions

Microsoft is preparing for the release of Windows 12, which is expected to feature an AI-native experience with deep integration of Copilot, showcasing capabilities like on-screen comprehension, voice activation, and task automation. The hardware requirements will be elevated, necessitating 16GB of RAM, rapid NVMe storage, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for advanced features. Windows on Arm is gaining momentum, with improvements in app compatibility and battery life, while a modular architecture called CorePC is being developed to facilitate faster updates and enhance security. Licensing for Windows 12 is expected to remain unchanged for consumers, with optional cloud-enhanced services available. The update cadence will increase, allowing for faster feature drops independent of major OS releases, with the Windows Insider Program continuing to test new features. Upon its release, Windows 12 will integrate Copilot, provide a more cohesive OS core, and support both x86 and Arm architectures.
Steam Machine delays are getting me down, but Valve could be extremely cool and release its controller right now
AppWizard
February 21, 2026

Steam Machine delays are getting me down, but Valve could be extremely cool and release its controller right now

The Steam Machine faces disappointment due to RAM shortages and the lack of a definitive price or release date, raising concerns about it becoming vaporware. The original Steam controller did not succeed in saving the 2015 Steam Machine, but the success of the Steam Deck has created optimism for a new gamepad that could enhance couch gaming. Players are increasingly leaning towards hybrid setups, and the introduction of the new controller could encourage upgrades to the Steam Machine. The Steam Controller aims to improve the experience for full PC setups and foster interest in Valve's hardware ecosystem. Releasing the controller now could demonstrate Valve's commitment to quality hardware and potentially attract gamers from competitors like PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The Google Weather Android ‘app’ is going away
AppWizard
February 21, 2026

The Google Weather Android ‘app’ is going away

Google is transitioning from its traditional Weather app to a streamlined experience through its Search results. This change, which has been gradually implemented, now directs users from the Weather homescreen shortcut to a Google Search results page for weather information. The new search page features the Froggy card displaying current conditions and hourly forecasts, along with a 10-day forecast carousel and dropdown menus for various weather metrics. AI-driven overviews have also been integrated to enhance the user experience. As more devices receive updates, the previous fullscreen Weather experience is being phased out, indicating a consolidation of Google’s weather offerings in favor of Search.
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