Android operating system Archives

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

Japan orders Google to unwind deals with smartphone OEMs

Japan’s Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) has ordered Google to stop certain business practices related to its Android operating system, specifically the Mobile Application Distribution Agreements (MADAs) that required manufacturers to pre-install specific Google applications. The JFTC found that these agreements violate Japan’s Antimonopoly Act, stifling competition and creating market barriers. Google must cease mandating pre-installation of its applications, allow installation of competing products, and enable users to choose their default search service. This action is the first regulatory measure by the JFTC against a major American tech firm. Additionally, Google is facing scrutiny for allegedly obstructing Yahoo! Japan's use of its advertising technology and has been warned of fines for not opening its app store to more competition. Globally, Google is dealing with antitrust challenges, including potential forced divestitures in the U.S. The company has also signed a power purchase agreement in Taiwan for a ten-megawatt geothermal energy project, aiming to pursue similar initiatives in Asia.

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Google launches Gemini in Android Studio for Businesses, making it easier for devs to design work apps

Apple is the leading smartphone manufacturer in the U.S., while 60% of corporate-owned devices are powered by Android, according to a survey by Stratix. Google announced Gemini in Android Studio for businesses at the Google Cloud Next 2025 conference, a subscription-based service aimed at enhancing the Android ecosystem for enterprise app developers. Gemini focuses on secure, privacy-oriented AI solutions, with a strict data governance policy ensuring confidentiality and ownership of company code. It includes enterprise-grade management features and extends Google's generative AI indemnification policy to protect against copyright infringement claims related to AI-generated code. The enterprise edition allows customization using internal repositories, improving code acceptance rates by 70%. Gemini is compliant with various industry certifications, including SOC 1, 2, and 3, and ISO/IEC 27001, among others. A free version of Gemini remains available for independent developers, while organizations can acquire a Code Assist Enterprise license through the Google Cloud Console.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Google made a dashcam app for cars with Android Automotive, but you can’t download it

Google has launched a dashcam application for Android Automotive that allows vehicles with built-in cameras to record their surroundings. This open-source app can be integrated by car manufacturers, addressing the gap where many vehicles lack a native dashcam feature. The app is designed to work with existing camera hardware and requires system-level permissions for integration into the vehicle's operating system. Recordings are stored in the vehicle's internal storage, but Google recommends saving them on external removable storage to reduce wear on internal components. Manufacturers can customize various parameters of the app, including storage allocation and user interface.

AppWizard

March 20, 2025

Google Play Services could soon make tracking system app updates much easier (APK teardown)

Google is introducing a new "System services" section within Google Play Services to streamline the tracking of updates for essential Android system applications. This feature aims to help users distinguish between regular app updates and important system app updates, addressing confusion about the status of core system components. An APK teardown of Google Play Services v25.11.32 beta has revealed references to this section, which will notify users of available updates and direct them to the Google Play Store. The app listings for core system applications will also be simplified to focus on essential information, reducing user confusion and improving understanding of system app updates. The "System services" page and updated app listings are not yet live but represent a step towards enhancing user trust and clarity regarding system app updates.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Large-Scale Malicious App Campaign Bypassing Android Security

A recent analysis by Bitdefender has revealed a significant ad fraud campaign resulting in over 60 million downloads of malicious applications from the Google Play Store. The campaign involves at least 331 applications that can bypass Android's security measures, allowing them to remain undetected and activate without user interaction. These apps, which often disguise themselves as utility tools, are capable of displaying advertisements and launching phishing attacks without necessary permissions. Some of the malicious apps have been updated and continue to be active, while Google has been notified and is investigating the issue. The attackers employ various methods to conceal their apps, including hiding icons and exploiting system vulnerabilities. They also use custom command and control domains with encryption techniques to complicate detection efforts.

AppWizard

March 3, 2025

More Android phones should copy how the Xiaomi 15 offers its AI writing tools

The Xiaomi 15 series integrates AI writing tools directly into the Android text selection menu, allowing users to summarize, proofread, extend, or rewrite text across all applications. Users can access these features by selecting text and tapping the AI writing button in the selection menu. In contrast, competitors like Google Pixel and OnePlus limit their AI writing capabilities to specific first-party applications. Samsung's upcoming One UI 7 update will also enable system-wide access to AI writing features, indicating a potential trend in the smartphone industry towards broader integration of such tools.

AppWizard

February 13, 2025

Tech Bytes: the Apple TV app is now available on Android mobile devices

The Apple TV app has launched on Android mobile devices, offering a seven-day free trial for users on Android 10 or later. Amazon is testing a feature that directs users to external brand websites for products not available on its platform. Ninja has introduced an ice cream machine called the Ninja Swirl, which can make both soft serve and hard scoops, priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a significant development for streaming enthusiasts, the Apple TV app has officially made its debut on Android mobile devices. According to ABC's Andrea Fujii, this app has been meticulously crafted to leverage the unique capabilities of the Android operating system. New users can enjoy a complimentary seven-day trial, although it's important to note that this offer is only applicable to devices operating on Android 10 or later. Amazon's New Shopping Feature Meanwhile, Amazon is exploring innovative ways to enhance its shopping experience. The retail giant is currently testing a feature that directs users to external brand websites when they search for products not available on Amazon's platform. This initiative aims to streamline the purchasing process for customers, although details regarding whether Amazon will receive a commission from these transactions remain unclear. Ninja's Dual-Function Ice Cream Machine In another interesting twist in the world of consumer gadgets, Ninja has unveiled its latest creation: an ice cream machine that promises to deliver two delightful treats in one. The Ninja Swirl is designed to serve both soft serve and hard scoops, requiring just one additional step after the churning process. However, potential buyers should be prepared for a price tag of 0, which may cause a slight chill to their wallets. For Related Stories: Tech Bytes" max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

TikTok wants Android users to sideload its app

TikTok is allowing Android users to sideload its app directly from TikTok.com/download as a response to ongoing uncertainty regarding its operations in the U.S. The app is available as an Android Package Kit (APK) file, enabling users to bypass traditional app store restrictions. This sideloading option is a temporary measure to maintain TikTok's presence in the U.S. market, while iPhone users outside the European Union do not have a similar option.

AppWizard

February 4, 2025

Google warns Android users of a zero-day software exploit causing instability

Google has warned Android users about a significant zero-day exploit, identified as CVE-2024-53104, that could cause software instability and allow attackers to manipulate devices. This vulnerability operates at the Linux kernel level and affects all Android devices, including the Galaxy S25 and S24. A fix is included in the February security patch, but OEMs must distribute it. Current reports indicate that exploitation attempts are limited, but users are urged to update their devices promptly. Additionally, another flaw affecting Qualcomm technology may grant remote access to devices, with no reported victims yet. In 2023, 97 zero-day vulnerabilities were exploited, a 50% increase from 2022, primarily impacting Android devices.

AppWizard

December 21, 2024

Google Keep May Become a System App in Android 16

Google Keep is transitioning into a system app on Android 16 devices, as seen in the Android 16 Developer Preview 2, where it is listed as a pre-installed application that cannot be uninstalled without root access. This change positions Google Keep alongside essential system applications like Phone, Contacts, and the Google Play Store. The app recently gained compatibility with Google Tasks, indicating a renewed focus on enhancing its functionality within the Android ecosystem. Future updates are expected to further integrate Google Keep as a key productivity tool on the platform.