Android devices Archives

BetaBeacon

April 26, 2025

EXCLUSIVE: NYT launches new multi-game leaderboard that lets users share scores

NYT Games has introduced a multi-game leaderboard where players can showcase their skills in Wordle, Connections, Spelling Bee, and The Mini Crossword. Players can track the scores of celebrity puzzle solvers and connect with other word game enthusiasts. The feature is available on the New York Times Games app and website, with a rollout expected across all devices in the coming weeks.

AppWizard

April 23, 2025

Fake Alpine Quest Mapping App Spotted Spying on Russian Military

A malicious variant of the Alpine Quest navigation app has been identified, specifically targeting Russian military Android devices. Security experts from Doctor Web discovered that this modified app contains the Android.Spy.1292.origin spyware, which collects sensitive information and executes remote commands. The spyware is distributed as a free download through a deceptive Telegram channel, marketed as a premium version of the legitimate app. Upon installation, it transmits data such as the user's phone number, account details, contact list, geolocation data, and stored files to a remote server. It also communicates with a Telegram bot controlled by the attackers, providing updated location information. The spyware can download additional modules to extract specific content, particularly documents from messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. It searches for a file named locLog generated by Alpine Quest, which records user movements. Doctor Web advises against downloading apps from unofficial sources and warns that malicious applications can bypass review processes on official app stores. The identity of the group behind this campaign is unknown, but there are previous associations with Ukrainian hacktivist factions targeting Russian military personnel.

AppWizard

April 23, 2025

ChatGPT chief says OpenAI would buy Chrome if Google is forced to sell

Nick Turley, chief of OpenAI's ChatGPT, expressed interest in acquiring Google's Chrome browser during a court hearing for the Department of Justice's antitrust trial against Google. He stated that many parties, including OpenAI, would be interested in such an acquisition to address concerns about Google's monopoly. Turley emphasized the potential for an "AI-first experience" if OpenAI integrated Chrome, while also noting challenges in entering the Android market due to Google's Gemini technology. He highlighted that tech giants like Google control key access points for product discovery, which complicates competition for OpenAI. In response, Google maintains that its products are preferred by users and has entered a two-year agreement with Samsung to preinstall its Gemini AI on devices, with other tech companies also making competitive offers. Google's revenue heavily relies on its Search and advertising segments, which generated .39 billion in Q3 2024. The ongoing trial may lead to significant changes in user interactions with Google products.

AppWizard

April 22, 2025

You Can Now Make Google Messages Blur NSFW Images

Google is introducing a feature in Google Messages that automatically detects and blurs nude photos sent to Android devices, displaying a sensitive content warning before explicit images can be viewed. This feature includes options to block numbers sending inappropriate images and alerts users when they attempt to send or forward such content. Users can enable sensitive content warnings in the Google Messages settings, while for users under 18, the feature is automatically activated. The detection processes occur on-device using Android's SafetyCore technology, ensuring user privacy and security. The feature is currently being tested on select Android devices running the Messages beta and does not extend to videos.

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Google Calculator 8.7 rolling out with a spacing tweak

Google has released version 8.7 of its Android Calculator app, which includes an increase in spacing between the last row of buttons and the gesture navigation bar to alleviate visual confusion. This adjustment is consistent across both portrait and landscape orientations. The update is currently being rolled out through the Play Store, with limited availability, and sideloading options are available for eager users. The previous significant overhaul of the app occurred in 2022, introducing a two-column user interface and a Quick Settings Tile.

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Revolutionary AI App Transforms Pest Control: Smart Solution Heads to Google Play

Jeffs' Brands' subsidiary, Fort Products, has submitted the Android version of its AI-powered pest control mobile application for review on Google Play, marking a step towards commercial rollout after successful development and internal testing. The app helps users identify pests and recommends treatments based on species, infestation severity, and preferences, while also suggesting Fort's proprietary pest control products. CEO Victor Hakmon highlighted the app's goal to empower users in addressing pest issues. The initiative aims to enhance Jeffs' Brands' direct-to-consumer offerings and establish new digital channels. The app is expected to be available for download after Google approval. Positive aspects include enhanced technological capabilities and potential for increased customer engagement and product sales, while challenges include the pending approval and lack of metrics on revenue or user adoption.

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Jeffs’ Brands: Fort Submits Android Version of AI-Based Pest Control App to Google Play

Jeffs' Brands Ltd has submitted the Android version of its AI-powered pest control mobile application for review on Google Play through its subsidiary, Fort Products Limited. The app helps users identify pests and provides treatment recommendations based on various factors. It includes product suggestions featuring Fort’s pest control solutions. Following successful internal testing, the app is designed for optimal usability and performance across Android devices and is expected to be available for download pending Google’s approval.

AppWizard

April 19, 2025

Urgent Android Warning: Major Security Flaw Allows Hackers Full Access—Here Are the Apps You Must Delete Now

A vulnerability known as “Dirty Stream” was discovered by Microsoft, allowing malicious applications to hijack trusted apps on high-end Android devices. Although the flaw has been patched, any data accessed before the patch remains vulnerable. The vulnerability exploited the ContentProvider system in Android, enabling harmful apps to send deceptive files that could overwrite critical data in secure storage. Microsoft noted that this could lead to arbitrary code execution, giving attackers full control over applications and access to sensitive user data. Several popular Android apps were found to be vulnerable, with over four billion installations affected. It is crucial to promptly install security updates and maintain app vigilance to protect personal data.

AppWizard

April 18, 2025

Perplexity’s Android App Is Infested With Security Flaws, Report Finds

Perplexity has launched a promotional campaign called “Ask like a millionaire,” offering a million-dollar prize to users who download its app, refer friends, and engage with it during the Super Bowl. However, the Android app is facing scrutiny due to significant security vulnerabilities, including issues that could lead to data theft and account takeovers. A report from Appknox reveals that the app's API can be accessed without restriction, and the code contains hardcoded secrets, making it easy for attackers to create counterfeit versions of the app. The app is also vulnerable to task hijacking, which could allow unauthorized access to sensitive data. Perplexity, founded in 2022, has raised 0 million in venture capital and has over 10 million downloads. The company is exploring partnerships with smartphone manufacturers and has faced criticism for alleged copyright infringement. Security experts advise users to consider removing the app until the issues are resolved.

BetaBeacon

April 18, 2025

This week’s free Epic Android games come with a special bonus

The Epic Games Store offers free games for Android and iOS mobile users every week. This week, the free games are Botanicula and Firestone: Online Idle RPG. Players who log into Firestone from the Epic Games Store will receive exclusive bonus content for the game.