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New Android features keep you focused on what matters most
AppWizard
December 2, 2025

New Android features keep you focused on what matters most

Android's Expressive Captions feature generates real-time captions that transcribe spoken words and capture the emotional nuances of the speaker's tone. It includes emotion tags such as [joyful] or [sad] to enhance understanding, especially when audio is muted. The feature also recognizes ambient sounds like [cheers and applause], providing a richer viewing experience and fostering inclusivity.
Google is preparing big Android 17 gaming upgrades for fans of real controllers
BetaBeacon
November 15, 2025

Google is preparing big Android 17 gaming upgrades for fans of real controllers

Android treats USB or Bluetooth gaming controllers as input devices, translating button presses into key codes and axis values for in-game actions. Android relies on predefined configuration files for popular controllers, but many niche peripherals are also compatible. Android does not support button remapping out of the box, but evidence suggests that a future version of Android, possibly Android 17, will bring native controller remapping. This feature will be restricted to apps signed with the platform key. Additionally, a new game controller menu within the Settings app and a virtual gamepad feature have been discovered, which could allow for button remapping and mapping on-screen touch controls to physical controller inputs.
Google makes it easier for businesses to run Windows apps on ChromeOS amid an uncertain future
Winsage
November 12, 2025

Google makes it easier for businesses to run Windows apps on ChromeOS amid an uncertain future

Google has rebranded Cameyo, the software virtualization company it acquired last year, as “Cameyo by Google” to enhance the usability of Windows applications on ChromeOS. Cameyo's platform allows users to stream individual Windows applications directly to their devices via a web app, integrating seamlessly with the native file system of Chromebooks. This solution targets enterprise users, enabling them to run legacy applications alongside modern web apps without the need for a separate virtual desktop environment. Cameyo also supports organizations in transitioning to ChromeOS while maintaining access to essential Windows applications, addressing the "app gap" that has hindered enterprise adoption of ChromeOS.
Google Maps for Android has some UI changes you should know about
AppWizard
October 3, 2025

Google Maps for Android has some UI changes you should know about

Google is updating its Google Maps app for Android, which has 154 million daily active users. Users spend an average of 23 minutes daily on the app, which offers features like restaurant recommendations and historical insights. The latest changes focus on two buttons: the Floating Action Button (FAB) has been redesigned to be smaller, teal, and diamond-shaped, directing users to a journey planning screen where they can add stops and customize routes. The current location indicator has changed from a blue arrow to a squircle shape with a compass icon, turning into a blue dot when the user's position is not displayed. The layers button has also been updated to include a small dot, allowing users to choose map views and access transit details. These updates are rolling out for users with version 25.39 of Google Maps, with those on version 25.40 already experiencing the new design. The changes reflect careful consideration of user interactions, particularly in the design of the location button's blue dot icon.
Microsoft is killing its ChromeOS competitor
Winsage
August 1, 2025

Microsoft is killing its ChromeOS competitor

Microsoft has decided to discontinue Windows 11 SE, a lightweight operating system introduced in 2021, aimed at low-cost laptops for educational environments. The company will cease all software updates for Windows 11 SE, with support officially ending in October 2026. The final update, version 24H2, will be the last released for this platform. Microsoft stated that it will not release a feature update after version 24H2 and recommends transitioning to a device that supports another edition of Windows 11 for continued support and security.
Chromebook Users Hit by Vanishing Google Play Store and Android Apps
AppWizard
July 31, 2025

Chromebook Users Hit by Vanishing Google Play Store and Android Apps

Chromebook users have experienced the disappearance of the Google Play Store and Android applications, attributed to software updates, device compatibility issues, and changes in Google’s policies. Chrome OS selectively supports Android applications, with devices launched in or after 2019 generally able to access the Play Store, while older models may lose access during updates. Troubleshooting often involves checking settings or performing a factory reset, but these do not always resolve the issue. Google is phasing out legacy Chrome Web Store applications in favor of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), which disrupts Android app access. Workarounds like sideloading apps from APK files exist but require technical expertise and raise security concerns. Google is integrating new features into Chrome OS, including Play Store filters, but persistent app disappearance issues could undermine user trust. The situation reflects broader tensions in Google’s ecosystem management, impacting the adoption of Chromebooks as professional devices. Users have expressed frustration over unexplained app losses, highlighting the need for clearer communication from Google.
Google drops 'Android Canary Release Channel' for devs eyeing rigorous API testing
AppWizard
July 10, 2025

Google drops ‘Android Canary Release Channel’ for devs eyeing rigorous API testing

Google has introduced the Android Canary Release Channel, a new testing environment for developers to access early test builds and upcoming features of Android. This channel is available for Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series to Pixel 9, and offers tools for developing features in Wear OS 6. Developers can flash the latest Canary build or use the Android Emulator via Android Studio, with future updates expected to roll out monthly. Opting out of the channel requires a complete data wipe of the device. The Android Canary channel will have a more measured update schedule compared to Chrome Canary, which receives daily updates.
6 new Android features that are tailored to you
AppWizard
June 11, 2025

6 new Android features that are tailored to you

Six innovative features have been introduced for Android users to enhance personalization. One feature is an AI-generated audio show that curates content based on individual interests. Google Home Favorites have been updated to allow users to customize selections across devices, making favorite playlists, news sources, and smart home controls easily accessible. These features are designed to adapt to users' lifestyles and preferences.
Six new Android features just dropped, and you can try them out today
AppWizard
June 10, 2025

Six new Android features just dropped, and you can try them out today

Android 16 introduces several new features, including enhancements to RCS group chats, a redesigned Google Photos editor, and improved functionality in the Google Home app. RCS group chat updates allow users to customize group chats with unique icons and names, check RCS status of friends, and mute notifications for specific groups. The Google Photos app features a new image editor with AI-driven suggestions, a Reimagine feature for creative expression, and an Auto frame function for better image cropping. The Google Home app now includes device-specific shortcuts for easier management of smart devices and an upgraded Safety Check feature for scheduling check-ins. WearOS smartwatches can now tap city transit cards even when the Google Wallet app is closed, provided the feature is activated.
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