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Android devices

Android ruined link handling years ago. Here's how I fixed it with a free app
AppWizard
May 23, 2026

Android ruined link handling years ago. Here’s how I fixed it with a free app

LinkSheet is an open-source application designed to improve link-handling on Android devices by reinstating the "Open with" dialog, allowing users to choose their preferred app for opening links. It intercepts links when set as the default browser, enabling users to select from multiple apps instead of being restricted to verified ones. LinkSheet also allows users to open links in incognito mode for privacy and control over browsing habits. Users can download LinkSheet from its GitHub repository, as it is not available on the Google Play Store. After installation, users can configure their apps to prevent them from opening verified links directly. Additional features include the Use ClearURLs option to remove tracking parameters and an Enable downloader feature for direct download links.
This Android gaming app might kill handheld PCs
AppWizard
May 23, 2026

This Android gaming app might kill handheld PCs

GameNative allows users to play PC games on Android devices without an internet connection, supporting Steam titles, Epic Games Store, Good Old Games (GOG), and standalone game files. It features a known configs capability that optimizes game settings for better performance. The app's creator, Utkarsh Dalal, aims for GameNative to replace handheld PCs within two years, despite challenges related to compatibility with ARM-based chips. The Snapdragon 8 Elite and 8 Elite Gen 5 processors promise significant enhancements, and the release of Turnip drivers in early 2026 has improved gaming experiences on these devices. GameNative is free and open-source, with a monetization strategy focused on partnerships with game stores. It has recently added support for the Pixel 10 family, which uses an Imagination PowerVR GPU. The app collects user feedback to refine game configurations and plans to improve compatibility and support for third-party launchers.
Wear OS 7: 5 New Features Coming To Your Android Smartwatch In 2026
AppWizard
May 22, 2026

Wear OS 7: 5 New Features Coming To Your Android Smartwatch In 2026

Google has unveiled Wear OS 7, set to roll out in late 2026, featuring new enhancements for smartwatch users. Key updates include: 1. Real-time tracking with Live Updates, allowing users to monitor data and notifications directly from their wrist. 2. Integration of Gemini Intelligence for AI automation, enabling voice-activated tasks and direct actions from smartwatches. 3. More customizable widgets, offering "Small" and "Large" sizes for a personalized interface while maintaining visual consistency with Android devices. 4. Improved media controls for apps like Spotify and YouTube, allowing users to customize playback triggers and switch audio sources more easily. 5. A 10% improvement in battery life and the introduction of the Wear Workout Tracker kit to enhance fitness app development without draining battery life.
Do you need antivirus on your phone?
Tech Optimizer
May 21, 2026

Do you need antivirus on your phone?

Mobile security discussions often question the necessity of antivirus programs for smartphones. While traditionally seen as essential, the need for antivirus software is being reevaluated, especially for advanced smartphones. Apple's iPhone has stringent security measures that prevent traditional antivirus scanning, with scams being the primary threat rather than viruses. In contrast, Android devices allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware, despite Google monitoring the Play Store. For users primarily downloading from official stores, antivirus applications may not be necessary. Instead, users should focus on keeping devices updated, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication to enhance security.
Android 17 Adds Continue On Feature for Seamless App Handoff Between Devices
AppWizard
May 21, 2026

Android 17 Adds Continue On Feature for Seamless App Handoff Between Devices

Android 17 will introduce a feature called Continue On, allowing seamless transitions of app activities across Android devices, similar to Apple's Handoff. This feature was announced through developer documentation rather than during the I/O 2026 keynote. Initially, Continue On will support handoffs between mobile devices and tablets, with plans for broader compatibility in the future. The feature enables users to resume activities on a nearby device by suggesting the app in the taskbar. It is bidirectional, allowing any compatible device to send and receive activity. Additionally, Continue On can transition from an app to the web version of a service if the app is not installed. The feature will debut with Android 17, which is currently in beta, and the developer documentation is available for implementation ahead of the launch.
Google Health 5.0 rolling out with new stats widget on Android
AppWizard
May 21, 2026

Google Health 5.0 rolling out with new stats widget on Android

Google Health has started rolling out version 5.0 of the Fitbit app for Android devices, introducing a new homescreen Quick Access Widget that replaces the previous Steps widget. This widget can display up to six different metrics simultaneously and allows users to customize their interface by removing certain elements. It includes a heart icon for direct app access, quick navigation to the Health Coach feature, and indicates the last update time. The update also features a new Google Health icon, phasing out Fitbit branding for software, while Fitbit branding remains for hardware. Version 5.0 is necessary for setting up the upcoming Fitbit Air, with the rollout starting on May 19 and expected to be fully available by May 26.
Google AI Studio has learnt to create Android apps from a text query
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Google AI Studio has learnt to create Android apps from a text query

Google has introduced a new feature in AI Studio that enables users to create native Android applications from text descriptions, automatically generating Kotlin code and using Jetpack Compose for the user interface. Developers can build Android apps directly in the browser without needing to install Android Studio or additional libraries. AI Studio includes a built-in Android Emulator for real-time testing and allows immediate installation of applications on Android devices via USB. Users can publish builds to Google Play's internal test track and export projects as ZIP archives or push them to GitHub. The service is ideal for developing simple utilities and applications that utilize various Android hardware features. Future updates will include support for Firebase and other tools.
You can now build Android apps in minutes by describing them to Google AI Studio
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

You can now build Android apps in minutes by describing them to Google AI Studio

Google has introduced AI-powered features in Google AI Studio to simplify Android app development. Users can describe their app ideas in plain language, and the AI translates these into functional Android applications via a web browser. The platform generates the app's framework, user interface, and core functionalities using Kotlin and Jetpack Compose, supporting features like GPS, Bluetooth, and NFC. AI Studio includes an in-browser Android Emulator for building and testing apps, along with Android Debug Bridge integration for direct deployment to devices. Currently, the tools are aimed at personal utilities and lightweight projects, with plans for broader sharing options in the future. The platform can automatically create Play Console records, package Android App Bundles, and upload builds for testing, reducing manual steps. Developers can also export projects as zip files for further work in Android Studio or GitHub. Future expansions will include support for Firebase services. Additionally, Google has introduced the "Ask Play" feature for app discovery, allowing users to search using conversational prompts instead of keywords, and plans to integrate Android applications within Gemini interactions across mobile and web platforms.
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